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Review
. 2023 Feb;39(2):481-489.
doi: 10.1007/s00381-022-05696-0. Epub 2022 Oct 18.

Mansonic neuroschistosomiasis in the childhood: an undiagnosed pathology?

Patricia Alessandra Dastoli  1 , Marcos Devanir Silva da Costa  2 , Jardel Mendonça Nicácio  2 , Ricardo Silva Pinho  2 , Maria Aparecida Gadiani Ferrarini  3 , Sergio Cavalheiro  2
Affiliations
Review

Mansonic neuroschistosomiasis in the childhood: an undiagnosed pathology?

Patricia Alessandra Dastoli et al. Childs Nerv Syst. 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is an endemic parasitic disease in several tropical countries. In Brazil, the only prevalent species of parasite responsible for schistosomiasis is Schistosoma mansoni. Neuroschistosomiasis is the second most frequent form of infection and the primary ectopic manifestation, with predominant involvement of the lower thoracic spinal cord and lumbar and lumbosacral regions. The frequent contact of children with contaminated ponds and the immaturity of their immune systems make this age group especially susceptible to infection by this parasite. Therefore, neuroschistosomiasis mansoni should always be considered in cases of transverse myelitis in children from endemic regions. The treatment for this condition is quite simple and effective, resulting in total recovery of neurological deficits if the diagnosis is made early.

Keywords: Childhood; Medullary schistosomiasis; Neuroschistosomiasis; Schistosomiasis; Transverse myelitis.

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