Bilharzia: Pathology, Diagnosis, Management and Control

Area of Science:

• Tropical medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by *Schistosoma* blood flukes.
• It affects over 250 million people globally, causing significant disability-adjusted life years lost.
• Subtle morbidities include impaired growth, anemia, and cognitive deficits in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of schistosomiasis.
• To cover epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, clinical management, and control strategies.
• To highlight challenges and future directions in disease control.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of schistosomiasis epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, and control.
• Analysis of factors contributing to ongoing transmission.
• Examination of current and developing control interventions.

Main Results:

• Transmission persists in many regions due to snail hosts, poor sanitation, and reduced drug compliance.
• Integrated control reduced disease burden in China, but requires significant investment elsewhere.
• Human vaccines are in development and expected to be integral to future control.

Conclusions:

• Schistosomiasis remains a major global health challenge, particularly in tropical regions.
• Effective control requires integrated approaches, improved sanitation, health education, and sustained drug administration.
• Human vaccination holds promise for future disease eradication efforts.