[Urinary schistosomiasis and cancer].

Area of Science:

• Uro-oncology
• Infectious diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Urinary schistosomiasis (US) has been historically suspected of causing bladder carcinoma.
• Early observations noted associations between US and bladder cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma in endemic regions.

Observation:

• Ferguson's 1911 study detailed a likely association between bladder carcinoma and US-induced granulomas.
• Case-control studies later confirmed a positive correlation, adjusted for confounding factors like age, sex, dwelling, and tobacco use.

Findings:

• Chronic inflammation from US eggs and urine stasis are proposed mechanisms for bladder cancer development.
• While treatment and prognosis are similar to other bladder cancers, US-linked tumors often present as squamous cell carcinoma.

Implications:

• Understanding the pathogenesis of US-associated bladder cancer is crucial, aided by new genomic and animal models.
• Effective control of Schistosoma haematobium infection is essential for reducing morbidity and mortality from these cancers.