Clinical diagnosis of Schistosoma japonicum infection complicating infective endocarditis and liver cirrhosis

Abstract

Human infection with the parasite Schistosoma japonicum is rarely seen in Japan. Infection with the parasite is currently known to be endemic in China and South-east Asia, and chronic infection leads to the development of liver fibrosis, calcification and portal hypertension. We report a case of Schistosoma japonicum infection complicating infective endocarditis and liver cirrhosis. The non-invasive imaging findings and serological test were helpful to diagnose the infection with the parasite. Since Schistosoma japonicum infection is extremely rare in Japan, the diagnosis and evaluation of the patient's condition was delayed. © 2010 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.