Kjetland EF, Ndhlovu PD, Kurewa EN, Midzi N, Gomo E, Mduluza T, Friis H, Gundersen SG
Journal title: The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene
Am. J. Trop. Med. Hyg. 2008 Jul;79(1):79-83
PMID: 18606767
Article on PubMed: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18606767
Abstract
Schistosoma haematobium infection may cause genital mucosal pathology in women with and without urinary schistosomiasis. This report seeks to explore the long-term effect of anti-schistosomal treatment on the clinical manifestations of S. haematobium infection in the lower genital tract. Prior treatment was reported by 248 (47%) of 527 women. Treatment received before the age of 20 years was significantly associated with the absence of sandy patches and contact bleeding, and this association was independent of current waterbody contact. Treatment in the past five years did not influence the prevalence of gynecologic schistosoma-induced lesions. The study indicates that early treatment may be more efficient for gynecologic morbidity control. Findings warrant an exploration into several chemotherapeutic agents administered at an early age, as well as in adults.