Virtual Chromoendoscopy Enhancing Visualization of Parasite Anatomical Landmarks: A Case Report

Cestodes are parasitic flatworms transmitted through fecal-oral transmission. Some patients may present with nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms. Endoscopic identification of intestinal helminths is uncommon and may pose a diagnostic challenge. We describe the endoscopic findings of intestinal cestodiasis and highlight the role of advanced endoscopic imaging techniques in its in vivo recognition. We report the case of a patient with no significant medical history who presented with recent-onset intermittent gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal distension and bloating. Laboratory tests and computed tomography enterography showed no abnormalities. Using magnification and virtual chromoendoscopy, detailed visualization of a parasite attached to the terminal ileal mucosa was achieved. Colonoscopy revealed a thin helminth adherent to the terminal ileal mucosa. Virtual chromoendoscopy enhanced visualization of characteristic anatomical structures. This case highlights the diagnostic value of advanced endoscopic imaging techniques and underscores their usefulness for recognizing uncommon intestinal infections during routine colonoscopy.