Active schistosomiasis, severe hypereosinophilia and rapid progression of chronic endomyocardial fibrosis

Abstract

Endomyocardial fibrosis (EMF) is a neglected restrictive cardiomyopathy of unknown aetiology and unclear natural history, which causes premature deaths in endemic areas. We present the case of a 13-year-old boy from a highly endemic area, presenting with concurrent signs of chronic EMF and severe hypereosinophilia associated with active schistosomal cystitis. We discuss the possible role of this parasitic infection in determining the progression of EMF in endemic areas for both conditions.