This Week in Parasitism TWiP 271: The silent lesion
4 snips
Dec 23, 2025 Dive into the world of female genital schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease affecting women in Southern Malawi. Discover the complex life cycle of Schistosoma haematobium and its impacts on health, leading to painful symptoms and stigmatization. Learn about innovative diagnostic techniques, including colposcopy, that reveal the underdiagnosis of this condition. With high rates of co-infection with HPV, the discussion highlights urgent public health needs and creative solutions for prevention and treatment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
How Schistosoma Causes Genital Disease
- Schistosoma haematobium infects via freshwater cercaria that penetrate skin and migrate to pelvic venous plexuses.
- Entrapped eggs cause chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and genital lesions independent of urinary symptoms.
FGS Often Occurs Without Urinary Signs
- Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is common in endemic areas and can occur without urinary schistosomiasis.
- FGS symptoms mimic STIs, creating stigma and diagnostic confusion.
Zoonotic and Hybrid Schistosomes Matter
- Hybrids and zoonotic species (e.g., S. mattheei) can cause genital schistosomiasis.
- Species mixing complicates epidemiology and control strategies.