SCHISTOSOMIAS IS

S. Japonicum ; S. mansoni ; S. haematobium

What is Schistosomiasis?

Schistosomiasis is a type of infection caused by parasites called schistosomes that live in fresh water, such as rivers or lakes, in subtropical and tropical regions worldwide. It is also known as BILHARZIA

schistosomes

small, white-grey worms that are 720mm long capable of burying into human skin can then move into other organs of the body, such as the liver or bladder. They live in lakes, rivers, reservoirs and canals and can infect anyone who comes into contact with contaminated water.

What causes the infection?

There are five Schistosoma species that are known to infect humans and the 3 most common are:

Schistosoma mansoni Schistosoma japonicum Schistosoma haematobium

Schistosoma mansoni
occurs in Africa, Madagascar, Brazil, Venezuela, Surinam, and certain Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico Primarily lives in the portal vein and distribution is found in the inferior mesenteric vein Produces abdominal pain, and dysentery, with abundant blood and mucus in the stool

Eggs are found in the feces (embryonated, contains mature miracidium if passed) Eggs, 116-180 m by 45-58 m, are oval, with a large distinctive lateral spine that protrudes from the side of the egg near one end. Color of the egg: yellow or yellow brown

Schistosoma japonicum
occurs in China, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines clinically similar to that of S. mansoni but often more serious adult worms live primarily in the distribution of the superior mesenteric vein

The smaller size of the eggs predisposes them to dissemination, especially to the brain and spinal cord. Eggs (embryonated with mature miracidium when passed) are broadly oval, measuring 75-90 m by 60-68 m, and have an inconspicuous lateral spine Color: yellow or yellow brown

Schistosoma haematobium

Eggs are found in urine parasites migrate via the hemorrhoidal veins to the venous plexuses of the urinary bladder, prostate, uterus, and vagina Common symptoms are hematuria

chronic infection may cause pelvic pain and bladder colic urinary schistosomiasis also has been associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder Eggs are elongate, measuring 112-180 m by 40-70 m, and have a characteristic terminal spine