What type of infestation could potentially cause pneumonia or liver abscesses in severe cases?

The type of infestation that could potentially cause pneumonia or liver abscesses, particularly in severe cases, is linked to threadworms. Threadworms, also known as Strongyloides stercoralis, have a life cycle that can include larvae migrating through the body. When these larvae penetrate the skin or are ingested, they can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing respiratory issues such as pneumonia due to inflammation and infection in the lung tissues. Additionally, if the infestation is severe, the larvae can also lead to the formation of liver abscesses as they migrate through the hepatic portal circulation.

Understanding these potential complications is key in identifying and treating threadworm infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with a very high parasite load. This underscores the importance of recognizing not only the gastrointestinal symptoms typically associated with threadworms but also the systemic effects that can arise from significant infestations.