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Schistosomal appendicitis: a case series

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease with significant morbidity, yet appendicitis secondary to schistosomal infestation remains rare, even in endemic regions. We report a series of five cases of acute appendicitis in adult patients, where histopathological examination revealed schistosomal appendicitis. All patients presented with classical features of acute appendicitis, underwent appendectomy, and recovered uneventfully. One case demonstrated mural calcifications on preoperative imaging, raising suspicion of schistosomiasis preoperatively. Histology confirmed the diagnosis in all cases. This report highlights the importance of routine histopathological examination of appendectomy specimens in endemic areas, as schistosomiasis may mimic common surgical emergencies and requires targeted antiparasitic treatment postoperatively to prevent further complications.

Source: Journal of Surgical Case Reports

DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjag007