Infectious disease clinics of North America
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Schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease, caused by blood-dwelling worms of the genus Schistosoma. The main human species are S mansoni (occurring in Africa and South America) and S japonicum (South and East Asia) causing intestinal and hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, and S haematobium (Africa) causing urinary schistosomiasis. Severe symptoms develop in predilected people with heavy and long-standing infections. ⋯ The diagnosis of schistosomiasis relies on microscopic examination of stools or urine, serologic tests, and imaging. Praziquantel is the drug of choice, active against all species in a single or a few oral doses. Current control strategies consist mainly of preventive therapy in communities or groups at risk.