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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
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Cercarial Transformation and in vitro Cultivation of Schistosoma mansoni Schistosomules
Published on: August 16, 2011
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Mammary schistosomiasis: A rare case.
Samantha Chen1, Nathalie Marie Falkner2, Mireille Julia Hardie3,4
1Department of General Surgery, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|August 2, 2022
Summary
Mammary schistosomiasis, a rare breast condition, can mimic malignancy on mammograms. Diagnosis requires biopsy to identify calcified Schistosoma eggs, as seen in this case from the Philippines.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Schistosomiasis is a widespread parasitic disease in developing nations, rarely affecting the breast.
- Mammary schistosomiasis presents diagnostic challenges, often mimicking breast cancer on imaging.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient from the Philippines with incidental microcalcifications on mammography.
- These microcalcifications prompted further investigation into potential malignancy.
Findings:
- Histological examination revealed calcified Schistosoma ova, confirming mammary schistosomiasis.
- Image-guided biopsy was crucial for accurate diagnosis and excluding malignancy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare parasitic infections in breast imaging differentials.
- Awareness of mammary schistosomiasis is vital for radiologists and pathologists, especially in endemic regions.
- Prompt diagnosis prevents unnecessary invasive procedures for malignancy.
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