Massive spinal cord necrosis in schistosomiasis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pathology

Background:

• Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by flatworms of the Schistosoma genus.
• Spinal cord involvement in schistosomiasis typically manifests as granulomatous myelitis.
• Extensive spinal cord necrosis is an exceptionally rare complication.

Observation:

• A fatal case of transverse myelitis occurred in a 19-year-old Brazilian woman.
• The patient succumbed to the condition within six weeks.
• Autopsy revealed extensive spinal cord necrosis below the T-4 level.

Findings:

• Schistosoma mansoni ova were identified within the necrotic spinal cord tissue.
• Ova were also found in the leptomeninges surrounding the affected area.
• This represents the most extensive spinal cord necrosis reported in schistosomiasis literature.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for severe neurological damage from Schistosoma mansoni.
• Underscores the importance of considering schistosomiasis in the differential diagnosis of myelitis, especially in endemic regions.
• Suggests a need for further research into the pathogenesis of severe spinal cord necrosis in schistosomiasis.