Schistosomiasis

The diagnosis of schistosomiasis (bilharziasis) is confirmed by the identification of eggs in stool, urine or biopsy samples. If infection is suspected (eg in travellers from endemic areas), serology may assist diagnosis, but interpretation of results can be difficult—seek expert advice.

For chronic infection with Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma japonicum, Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma mekongi, use:

Further treatment courses may be required in patients who have inadequate response to initial treatment.

Acute schistosomiasis syndrome (Katayama fever) occurs 3 to 8 weeks after infection and is a systemic hypersensitivity reaction to schistosome antigens and circulating immune complexes. Treatment includes prednisolone (or prednisone) followed by praziquantel. Seek expert advice.

For information about swimmers’ itch, see Cercarial dermatitis.