Early complicated schistosomiasis in a returning traveler: key contribution of new molecular diagnostic methods

Abstract

Early schistosomiasis poses serious diagnostic challenges, because current standard diagnostic techniques based on serology and egg microscopy lack sensitivity at the initial presentation. We report spinal cord neuroschistosomiasis in a traveler developing six weeks after exposure. Diagnosis was confirmed by Schistosoma mansoni-targeting real-time polymerase chain reaction in blood and CSF, before results of conventional methods became positive. Molecular assays represent a paradigm shift for the difficult diagnosis of early schistosomiasis and related complications.