Imaging Manifestations of Parasitic Infections in the Abdomen and Pelvis

Gastrointestinal and genitourinary infections by helminths and protozoa are globally significant, yet prevalence is disproportionately distributed to regions with warm temperatures, high humidity, and underdeveloped infrastructure. Although infection in North America is often due to travel and immigration—with the exception of certain endemic parasites—increases in international travel and immigration lead patients with these infections to be seen anywhere. In such cases, the unexpected cause of symptoms can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, resulting, in some cases, in severe complications and long-term sequelae. This Pictorial Essay highlights characteristic imaging findings associated with a wide array of parasites and briefly reviews the clinical features associated with these parasitic infections.