Schistosomiasis: Symptoms & Signs

Medically Reviewed on 4/12/2021

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease. Schistosomiasis is also known as bilharzia or snail fever. The parasites are found in various tropical parts of the world.

Signs and symptoms of schistosomiasis typically do not develop until the eggs develop, about 1-2 months after the organism enters the body. At this point, some people develop

Chronic symptoms and signs follow within months to years and can include

Cause of schistosomiasis

Parasites (genus Schistosoma) that enter the body through the skin and migrate through the circulation cause schistosomiasis. Eventually, the parasites produce eggs that develop into worms within the body. Infected freshwater snails are the source of the organism that enters the human body.

Other schistosomiasis symptoms and signs

References
Jameson, J. Larry, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.