Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by worms of the genus Schistosoma, which is acquired through contact with fresh water where the larvae live and which can affect the intestine, the liver or the urinary tract.

Possible manifestations: In early stages there may be itching of the skin and fever; later, depending on the organs affected, abdominal pain, blood in the stool or urine, and other digestive symptoms appear.

When to seek care? It's advisable to consult if there is persistent discomfort after having been in areas with contaminated fresh water.

Which specialist handles it? The gastroenterologist takes part in the workup when there is digestive or liver involvement and coordinates the evaluation depending on the case. Mentioning a history of water exposure to this professional helps better guide the workup.