Multisystem imaging review of human schistosomiasis: characteristic imaging findings

Abstract

Human schistosomiasis is one of the major tropical/subtropical parasitic diseases with significant morbidity and mortality. Although, the majority of the cases are seen within the endemic region, upsurge in recent immigration as well as frequent travel to endemic areas allows cases reported worldwide. Thus, it is important for radiologists and physicians be familiarized with the imaging features of schistosomiasis. Human schistosomiasis affects multiple target organs among which hepatosplenic, gastrointestinal and genitourinary organs are common. Rarely does it also affect pulmonary, central nervous system, testes etc. This article presents a comprehensive review of the characteristic imaging findings of schistosomiasis involving multiple target organs. The typical imaging findings are thoroughly correlated with the pathophysiology of parasite in human body. In addition, we have emphasized the key learning points to differentiate it from close differentials.

Keywords: Imaging review; Multisystem; Schistosomiasis.