17th February 2025

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a helminthic infection caused by one of five types of schistosome. The schistosomes are found in infested water and often use snails as a vector. Areas of particular incidence are East Asia, central Africa and, less commonly, the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Pulmonary schistosomiasis is likely to present as wheeze, restrictive pulmonary compromise and chest X-ray infiltrates in the acute setting. It may be treated with praziquantel and is usually self-limiting.

Chronic infection may cause granulomatous reactions leading to pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary fibrosis.