Schistosoma Mansoni in the Cecum (8 of 9)

Pathophysiology: The pathophysiology of infection correlates with the life cycle of the parasite, as follows.Cercariae: Skin penetration of cercariae produces an allergic dermatitis at the site of entry. With prior sensitization, a pruritic papular rash occurs. This also is observed with nonhuman avian schistosomes. Schistosomula: These are tailless cercariae that are transported through blood or lymphatics to the right side of the heart and lungs. Heavy infection can cause symptoms such as cough and fever. Eosinophilia may be observed. Adult worm: Adult worms do not multiply inside the human body. In the venous blood, adult male and female worms mate, and the female lays eggs 4-6 weeks after cercarial penetration. Adult worms rarely are pathogenic. The female adult worm lives for approximately 3-8 years and lays eggs throughout her life span.