Schistosoma prevalence in appendicitis.

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a waterborne trematode with numerous subtypes affecting different areas of the body. Rob Ferreira Hospital is located in an endemic area for schistosomiasis in the Lowveld region of South Africa. We set out to determine the prevalence of Sch istosoma in appendicitis. From 2009 to 2013, all appendix samples removed in theatre were reviewed. A total of 304 cases were retrieved. Viable ova, calcified ova, or schistosomal granulomas was considered proof of exposure. Thirty-one out of the 304 cases revealed evidence of schistosomal exposure, equating to 10.2 %. A prevalence of more than 10 % is truly significant seeing as how a delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications, or how a misdiagnosis can result in unnecessary and often protracted treatment with harmful drugs.