Schistosomes: Clinical Manifestations

• What is the most common symptom of schistosomiasis?

  Swimmer’s Itch
• What causes skin rashes in schistosomiasis?

  Cercarial penetration
• What percentage of schistosome eggs are excreted in feces?

  One-half to one-third
• Where do most schistosome eggs remain during migration?

  In intestinal tissues
• Where do some schistosome eggs travel to?

  Vital organs
• What occurs due to the immune response to schistosome eggs?

  Granuloma formation
• What are the phases of schistosomiasis migration?

  • From penetration to egg production
  • Often asymptomatic
  • Symptoms: toxic reactions, pulmonary congestion, fever
  • Duration: 4-10 weeks
• What marks the start of the acute phase of schistosomiasis?

  Egg production
• What are the symptoms of Katayama fever?

  Non-specific signs
• What symptom can occur due to egg passage through intestinal walls?

  Blood in stool
• How long can the acute phase of schistosomiasis last?

  2 months to several years
• What are the symptoms of the chronic phase of schistosomiasis?

  • Mild diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Lethargy
  • Severe intestinal pathology due to immune reaction
• What causes hepatosplenomegaly in advanced schistosomiasis?

  High infection burden
• Which age group is most affected by schistosomiasis?

  Children under 14
• What are the effects of schistosomiasis on child development?

  Impaired growth patterns and academic performance
• How does the schistosomiasis parasite evade the host immune system?

  By altering immune response through complement inhibition
• What are the key clinical manifestations of schistosomiasis?

  • Swimmer’s Itch
  • Skin rashes (cercarial dermatitis)
  • Granuloma formation
  • Symptoms during migration, acute, and chronic phases
  • Hepatosplenomegaly in advanced cases