Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is infection with a type of Schistosoma parasite. Schistosomiasis is not usually seen in the North American. It is common in many tropical and subtropical areas worldwide.

Schistosomiasis people get a schistosoma infection through contact with contaminated water. The parasite in its infective stages is called a cercaria. It swims freely in open bodies of water. On contact with humans, the parasite burrows into the skin, matures into another stage (schistosomula), then migrates to the lungs and liver, where it matures into the adult form. The adult worm then migrates to its preferred body part, depending on its species. These areas include the bladder, rectum, intestines, liver, portal venous system.

Schistosomiasis Incubation 14 ～ 88 days Symptoms Heavy infestation may cause fever, chills, lymph node enlargement, and liver and spleen enlargement. Initial invasion of the skin may cause itching and a rash. Intestinal symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea (which may be bloody). Urinary symptoms may include frequent urination, painful urination, and blood in the urine.

Schistosomiasis Diagnosis: Microscopic identification of eggs in stool or urine is the most practical method for diagnosis. The stool exam is the more common of the two. Treatment This infection is usually treated with the drug praziquantel. If the infection is severe or involves the brain, corticosteroids may be given.

Schistosomiasis Prevention Avoid swimming or bathing in contaminated or potentially contaminated water Avoid bodies of water of unknown safety Snails are an intermediate host for the parasite. Getting rid of oncomelanias in bodies of water used by humans would help prevent infection.