[Endocervical schistosomiasis: case report]. Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • Schistosomiasis mansoni is found in different endemic areas of Brazil. It is a serious public health problem in Brazil and worldwide. Ectopic forms of the disease may affect the female reproductive system, representing a rare type of Schistosoma mansoni infection. A 26-year-old patient complained of vaginal discharge, dyspareunia and pain on palpation of the hypogastrium. Gynecological examination revealed an endocervical polyp. A biopsy was performed. Under microscopy, several granulomas surrounding degenerate and viable eggs of Schistosoma mansoni were seen. Treated with praziquantel, she was asymptomatic after four weeks of treatment. Vaginal discharge and dyspareunia may be secondary causes of cervicitis caused by Schistosoma mansoni. The search for eggs in routine vaginal smear or histological examination should be part of the gynecologic evaluation of patients from endemic areas, with the purpose of tracking ectopic schistosomiasis of the female genital tract.

publication date

  • June 2014