Schistosomiasis

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a common intravascular trematode infection. The snail/human lifecycle is illustrated. Travellers who acquire the infection are often asymptomatic, but nearly always give a history of fresh water exposure in endemic countries when asked. The various manifestations of symptomatic schistosomiasis are described, including the rare but important complication of neuroschistosomiasis. Guidelines for diagnostic tests, treatment with praziquantel and management of complications are given. Prospects for disease control in endemic countries by improvement in public health and mass treatment are discussed. Various vaccines are in development, but none are in clinical use yet.