Neurologic Complications of Schistosomiasis

Abstract

A review of the world''s literature on the neurologic complications of schistosomiasis has been attempted. Ninety-five reported cases of schistosomal involvement of the central nervous system were recorded, and 2 new cases are presented. Of the total 97 cases, 60 were due to S. japonicum, 11 to S. hematobium, and 26 to S. mansoni. Only 2 of the" 60 cases due to S. japonicum had involvement of the spinal cord, while in 8 of the 11 cases resulting from S. hematobium, the cord was affected. Seventeen of the 26 cases due to S. mansoni showed cord involvement. The pathologic findings of 2 cases of schistosomal transverse myelitis due to S. mansoni are described. The mechanisms for spreading schistosomal infection to the central nervous system are briefly discussed.