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Scintigraphic findings in schistosomiasis
1Radiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Liver and spleen scintigraphy (LSS) effectively monitored pediatric schistosomiasis mansoni patients. While livers normalized post-treatment, spleen abnormalities persisted, suggesting ongoing immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Parasitology
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Schistosomiasis mansoni is a significant tropical parasitic disease affecting the human portal system.
- Acute schistosomiasis mansoni presents diagnostic challenges, necessitating reliable follow-up methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of liver and spleen scintigraphy (LSS) in assessing pediatric patients with acute schistosomiasis mansoni.
- To track changes in liver and spleen morphology following oxamniquine therapy over long-term follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Liver and spleen scintigraphy (LSS) was performed on 15 pediatric patients before, 7 months after, and 9 years after oxamniquine treatment.
- Clinical history, physical examination, and serum chemistries were used to rule out other systemic diseases.
Main Results:
- Initially, 93% of patients exhibited hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) via LSS.
- Post-treatment, 93% of livers normalized, but 47% of spleens remained abnormal.
- Spleen abnormalities may indicate persistent immunologic reactions.
Conclusions:
- LSS is a valuable tool for evaluating and monitoring pediatric schistosomiasis mansoni.
- The normalization of liver morphology contrasts with persistent spleen changes, suggesting ongoing immune activity post-treatment.