Work

Appendicular Schistosomiasis Presenting as Peritonitis in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We report the case of a 17-year-old Yemeni male with no prior medical or surgical history who presented with generalized abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhea. Initial clinical and radiological evaluations suggested diffuse peritonitis, with findings consistent with appendicitis. The patient underwent an open laparotomy and appendectomy, which revealed a perforated appendix with purulent contamination. Histopathological examination confirmed schistosomal ova in the appendix. Postoperative complications included a fluid collection, which was managed with targeted antibiotics. The patient was also treated with praziquantel and eventually recovered well. This case highlights the rare occurrence of schistosomiasis presenting as appendicular peritonitis and emphasizes the importance of considering parasitic infections in acute abdominal presentations, particularly in endemic regions.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.83377

Authors: Wafa M Almuzayil, Mohmmed A AlHewishel, Husain A Alsaffar, Abdulrahman A Alarfaj, Fahad S AlMutairi, Nawaf Abdulrahim

Institutions: Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, King Fahad Specialist Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Parasites and Host Interactions

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4410049539