Hepatic schistosomiasis: report of two cases and literature review

Two Filipino patients were referred for evaluation of abnormal liver enzymes. Both patients were known to come from regions endemic for Schistosoma japonicum. The clinical laboratory and radiological features of these patients are presented. We highlight the findings of radiologic evaluation, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic strategies including a comparison of the utility of ultrasound, computed tomography, and MRI are reviewed. The pathophysiology responsible for hepatic manifestations of schistosomiasis is reviewed. An increased influx to the United States of persons from regions endemic for schistosomiasis, such as South America, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines, will result in an increase in the prevalence of the disease in this country. The diagnosis of hepatic schistosomiasis will need to be considered in populations at risk for contracting this common worldwide problem.