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Unmasking Schistosomiasis in the Appendix: A Rare Cause of Acute Appendicitis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, where access to safe drinking water is limited and hygiene is often lacking. Although the involvement of the vermiform appendix is very rare, we report a case of a 40-year-old adult presenting with acute right iliac fossa pain, who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy. Histopathology revealed Schistosoma ova in the wall of the appendix, confirming schistosomiasis. This case highlights the importance of considering parasitic causes of appendicitis and the need for further management, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where parasitic infections are endemic. Since a complete blood count (CBC) is a standard blood test, eosinophilia may be suggestive of a parasitic cause of appendicitis, particularly in conjunction with a patient's history.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.93443

Authors: Bader F Alshamlan, Munirah O Alfouzan, Abdulaziz F Alrubaiaan, Fady F Nakhla, Mohammad A Alghadhban

Institutions: Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization, Ministry of Health

Language: English

Topic: Appendicitis Diagnosis and Management

Subfield: Emergency Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414587302