Schistosomiasis Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe condition leading to right heart failure.
• Hepatosphenic schistosomiasis, particularly from *S. mansoni*, is associated with PAH in 5-10% of cases.
• The exact mechanisms of *Schistosoma*-associated PAH are not fully understood, but involve inflammation, vessel remodeling, and high cardiac output.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of *Schistosoma*-associated PAH.
• To highlight diagnostic challenges and treatment options.
• To identify areas for future research in pathogenesis and novel therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on *Schistosoma*-associated PAH.
• Discussion of diagnostic tools including echocardiography and right heart catheterization.
• Exploration of animal models for disease mechanism research.

Main Results:

• *Schistosoma*-associated PAH is likely underdiagnosed due to limited screening.
• Patients present with reduced functional capacity.
• Pulmonary vasodilators offer symptomatic improvement and potential survival benefits.

Conclusions:

• *Schistosoma*-associated PAH requires increased awareness and systematic screening.
• Type 2 immunity and TGF-β pathway activation are key pathogenic mechanisms.
• Further research is crucial for understanding disease progression and developing targeted treatments.