Maybe cleanliness isn’t next to godliness. A recent study from University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics shows parasitic worms may actually be good for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Before the 1940s, many children and adults in the U.S. carried tiny, parasitic worms in their intestines. Since then, quality of life has improved and the worms have all but disappeared. University of Iowa researchers believe the absence of these Helminthic worms is an important environmental factor favoring the development of inflammatory bowel diseases.
In two recent studies, patients with Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis took pig whipworm eggs in a drink every two to three weeks. The eggs developed into worms inside the patients. Over time, the majority of patients improved. Researchers believe this Helminthic therapy can eventually provide a real treatment option for patients.
"The results are encouraging," said Joel Weinstock, M.D., UI professor of internal medicine and director of the Digestive Diseases Center at UI Hospitals and Clinics.
"We’re very happy with what we have. Additional studies will be required in the United States and Europe before we have all the answers regarding this treatment."
Researchers are now developing ways of better packaging the worms, so they are easier to take. Proper dosage is also a factor. Weinstock says despite efforts over the years to eliminate these wriggling creatures, worms may someday play a vital role in many people’s health.
"With the growing understanding of the importance of these agents in maintaining the health of the GI track, eventually it may be possible to develop strategies where we can treat people at risk and prevent the disease," Weinstock said.
Helminthic therapy may eventually be used to treat other diseases caused by similar environmental problems, including multiple sclerosis, hay fever and asthma.
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