A Diagnostic Pitfall: Chronic Schistosomiasis Presenting With Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Like Symptoms in an Endemic Area
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: A 24-year-old male presented with a two-year history of intermittent bloody diarrhoea and central abdominal pain that had gradually worsened, accompanied by joint discomfort and backache. He denied direct exposure to irrigation canals, drains, or freshwater bodies usually linked to schistosomiasis transmission. However, he recalled occasional visits to the Nile Corniche where his feet had contact with fresh water. Laboratory investigations revealed marked eosinophilia (14%), which, in combination with intestinal and extra-intestinal features, raised suspicion for inflammatory bowel disease. Colonoscopy showed diffuse reddish patches with mild exudation but lacked a conclusive diagnosis. Histopathological analysis confirmed chronic schistosomiasis through the identification of viable Schistosoma ova, sessile polyps, and eosinophilic granulomas. The patient received 2400 mg of praziquantel and experienced complete resolution of symptoms.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.93422
Authors: Afraa Mohammed, Hala Abdalla, Alaa Mohamed, Elhadi Awooda
Language: English
Subfield: Parasitology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414585250