Impact of Ascaris lumbricoides Infection on Inflammatory and Immune Biomarkers Among the Elderly Population

Background: Ascaris lumbricoides infestation is a common helminthic infection in endemic areas and can lead to a major effect on the inflammatory and immune biomarker status of the aging population, which already exhibits impaired immunosenescence and low-grade chronic inflammation. Aims of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Ascaris lumbricoides infection on inflammatory and immune biomarkers among the elderly population and to determine the association between parasitic load and systemic immune response alterations. Methodology: This case–control study was conducted from June 10, 2025, to January 2, 2026, to assess the impact of Ascaris lumbricoides infection on inflammatory and immune biomarkers in individuals aged ≥60 years. Seventy-five infected patients and 40 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Diagnosis was confirmed by stool microscopy and Kato–Katz quantification. Blood samples were collected for hematological analysis and measurement of CRP, ESR, cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10), and total IgE using ELISA and standard laboratory methods. Result: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups, with no significant differences in age, BMI, sex distribution, hypertension, or diabetes. Infected elderly individuals showed significantly higher inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, ESR) and elevated immune biomarkers, including IgE, eosinophils, IL-4, and IL-10 (p < 0.001). Hematological changes included leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, reduced neutrophils, and mild anemia. Parasitic load positively correlated with CRP, IL-6, IgE, and eosinophils, indicating infection-intensity–dependent inflammatory and Th2 immune activation. Conclusions: Ascaris lumbricoides infection in the elderly significantly enhances systemic inflammation and Th2-mediated immune activation, likely due to persistent antigenic stimulation and age-related immune dysregulation, contributing to leukocytosis, eosinophilia, and mild anemia in an already vulnerable aging immune system.