Schistosoma mansoni

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Schistosomiasis mansoni)

Schistosoma mansoni is a species of parasitic flatworms, known as blood flukes, belonging to the genus Schistosoma. It is one of the major agents causing schistosomiasis, a disease that is endemic in many parts of the developing world, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease affects both humans and other mammals, with significant implications for public health and socio-economic development in affected areas.

Life Cycle[edit | edit source]

The life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni involves two hosts: a primary human host and a secondary snail host, typically of the genus Biomphalaria. The cycle begins when eggs are excreted in the feces of an infected person. If these eggs reach freshwater, they hatch into free-swimming larvae called miracidia. Miracidia infect the snail host, where they undergo several developmental stages to become cercariae, another form of free-swimming larvae. Cercariae are released into the water and can penetrate the skin of humans who come into contact with contaminated water. Once inside the human host, cercariae develop into adult worms, which reside in the blood vessels, completing the cycle.

Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]

The pathology of Schistosoma mansoni infection is primarily due to the body's immune response to the eggs laid by adult female worms in the blood vessels. These eggs can become lodged in tissues, causing inflammatory reactions and fibrosis. The most significant damage occurs in the liver, intestines, and spleen. Chronic infection can lead to liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, and other severe complications.

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Schistosoma mansoni infection is typically made by detecting eggs in stool samples using microscopy. Serological tests can also be used to detect antibodies or antigens related to the infection. Treatment primarily involves the use of antiparasitic medications, such as praziquantel, which is effective against all species of schistosomes.

Prevention and Control[edit | edit source]

Prevention and control of Schistosoma mansoni infection involve a combination of public health measures, including improving access to clean water, sanitation, health education, and snail control. Mass drug administration (MDA) of praziquantel in endemic areas is also a key strategy for reducing the burden of disease.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Schistosoma mansoni is endemic in parts of Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and South America. The World Health Organization estimates that over 200 million people are infected worldwide, with a significant number at risk of developing severe disease.

Research[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research on Schistosoma mansoni includes the development of vaccines, new diagnostic methods, and novel treatments. Understanding the complex interactions between the parasite and its hosts is crucial for developing effective control strategies.


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD