Presence of Ghost Capsules in Stool Mimicking Parasites due to Extended Release Metformin.

Background: This case report presents the history, findings, and diagnostic workup of a 28-year-old woman who presented to the hospital with a yellowish, parasite-like structure in her stool.

Methods: The patient had no significant gastrointestinal complaints other than weight loss and decreased appetite, and no parasites or leukocytes were detected on direct examination of the stool.

Results: No eosinophilia, elevated C-reactive protein or leukocytosis was detected in laboratory tests. It was suggested that the structure in the stool of the patient whose symptoms occurred after taking extended-release metformin could be a ghost tablet, and further investigation was not considered necessary.

Conclusions: The report emphasizes the importance of considering drug-related side effects, especially ghost pills, in patients with atypical stool findings to avoid unnecessary investigations and anxiety.