Urinary Schistosomiasis in Schoolchildren

Abstract

Two hundred schoolboys aged from 5–18 years with urinary schistosomiasis were studied. Terminal haematuria was observed to be the commonest presentation, though haematuria may be microscopic initially. Haematuria was painless in only a small percentage of cases, as most of them had associated urinary symptoms. Pain and burning sensation in the epigastrium was an outstanding feature of recent onset of schistosomiasis. Most cases had moderate proteinuria which was directly related to intensity of haematuria and egg count in urine. Ignorance about the transmission of the disease, false cultural beliefs and poor drug compliance seem to be important factors in the high prevalence in children. An extensive health education campaign, particularly in educational institutions, will help to control the disease in endemic areas.