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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
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Cercarial Transformation and in vitro Cultivation of Schistosoma mansoni Schistosomules
Published on: August 16, 2011
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Schistosome infections: an Indian perspective
1Assistant Professor, Microbiology, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute , Pondicherry, India .
Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR
|April 11, 2015
Summary
Human schistosomiasis, a parasitic worm infection, is globally diverse. Despite evidence of infection in India, its low-risk status warrants further investigation into schistosome species and human disease.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Schistosomiasis is a globally endemic helminthic disease with significant biodiversity in schistosome species, habitats, and epidemiology.
- The Indian subcontinent is generally considered low-risk for human schistosomiasis, despite serological evidence and egg detection in feces.
- Sporadic cases of human schistosomiasis occur in India, but the overall status of the disease remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of schistosome infections in humans within India.
- To highlight the potential association of various schistosome species in India with human infections and cercarial rash.
- To underscore the need for further investigation into the epidemiology of human schistosomiasis in the region.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on schistosomiasis in India.
- Analysis of reported cases and serological data.
- Examination of schistosome species identified in India and their potential hosts.
Main Results:
- Evidence of schistosomal antibody sero-positivity and egg excretion in human feces in India.
- Identification of several schistosome species in India with potential links to human infection.
- Recognition of cercarial rash as a possible indicator of exposure.
Conclusions:
- The current understanding of human schistosomiasis in India is limited, despite suggestive epidemiological and clinical findings.
- Further research is crucial to accurately assess the prevalence and impact of schistosomiasis in the Indian subcontinent.
- Clarifying the role of different schistosome species is essential for understanding and managing human infections in India.
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