Schistosomiasis: an unusual cause of right lower quadrant abdominal pain

Schistosomiasis, although unusual in North America, is a common disease worldwide. Symptoms vary depending on the species involved. Immigrants from endemic regions are the commonly affected patients found in North America. In most cases, schistosomiasis does not present with right lower quadrant pain. Even in endemic regions, this form of presentation is uncommon. In the United States, most cases of right lower quadrant pain often will be treated as appendicitis. Questions remain unanswered as to whether the schistosomes cause appendicitis or are found incidentally in these cases. Stool and urine specimens may be helpful in making a diagnosis. Most cases require operative intervention to rule out appendicitis and to obtain tissue for histopathologic diagnosis. Praziquantel is effective in eradicating infestations.