Evidence of ascariasis in a Celtic newborn from northern Italy

Abstract

BACKGROUND Infections with Ascaris lumbricoides can be traced back to the late Pleistocene by palaeoparasitological analysis. Even today, Ascaris infections are still very common worldwide. OBJECTIVES In a pilot study, soil samples from the pelvic area of ten individuals from the Celtic necropolis of Povegliano Veronese (northern Italy) were examined using palaeoparasitological methods. The burials date from the 3rd to 1st century Before the Common Era (BCE). METHODS The palaeoparasitological methods already proven in earlier studies were applied. FINDINGS Positive evidence of Ascaris eggs was obtained in three individuals, including a newborn. This neonate is the focus of the article. The causes of a possible Ascaris infection in a newborn are discussed. MAIN CONCLUSIONS It may represent the oldest documented instance of ascariasis in a neonatal individual.