Urinary schistosomiasis in children in the United Kingdom

Abid Qazi1, Jens Stahlschmidt, Ramnath Subramaniam

  • 1Department of Paediatric Urology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Great George Street, Leeds LS1 3EX, United Kingdom.

Insights

Urinary schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection, can cause painless hematuria. Early recognition and awareness are crucial, especially in non-endemic regions, to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Urinary schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by Schistosoma haematobium.
  • It is endemic in parts of Africa and the Middle East.
  • Diagnosis can be challenging in non-endemic areas.

Observation:

  • Two patients presented with persistent painless hematuria.
  • Symptoms were similar and occurred within a short timeframe.
  • Initial presentation mimicked more serious urological conditions.

Findings:

  • Diagnosis was confirmed using ultrasound, cystoscopic biopsies, and histology.
  • Both patients received treatment with praziquantel.
  • Praziquantel is an effective anthelminthic medication for schistosomiasis.

Implications:

  • Painless hematuria in non-endemic areas may indicate urinary schistosomiasis.
  • Awareness of the disease is vital for clinicians.
  • Thorough patient history and knowledge of endemic diseases can prevent invasive investigations.

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