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Bladder schistosomiasis

Case contributed by Domenico Nicoletti
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Hematuria. Patient is from central Africa.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Male
ct

Bladder wall is thickened with thin calcification within.
 

Case Discussion

Urinary schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease caused by a flatworm (or "flat") called Schistosoma. It contaminates fresh water in some areas of the world including Central Africa where this parasite is endemic.

To be infected just dive in waters infested by worms. The symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis are progressive, initially being urinary such as frequency, hematuria, dysuria.

Subsequently, the infection spreads and produces granulomas, polyps, fibroids and calcifications in the bladder wall.

Chronic evolution can lead to the formation of malignant tumors (cancer) of the bladder.

Other potential complications of urinary schistosomiasis are the frequent bacterial cystitis and inflammation of the fallopian tubes in women and prostate in men.

Case courtesy: Dr.ssa Luisa Coletta

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