The diagnosis and treatment of urogenital schistosomiasis in Italy in a retrospective cohort of immigrants from Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate ultrasound and praziquantel to, respectively, assess and reduce urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS)-associated morbidity in migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods: Migrants from SSA with UGS attending three Italian centres for tropical diseases during 2011–2016 were retrospectively enrolled. Data on clinical symptoms, routine laboratory, parasitological tests, and ultrasound reported as per the WHO–Niamey protocol were collected at baseline and at available follow-up visits after treatment with praziquantel 40 mg/kg/day for 3 days. Results: One hundred and seventy patients with UGS were enrolled and treated with praziquantel. Baseline ultrasonography showed urinary tract abnormalities in 115/169 patients (68%); the mean global Schistosoma haematobium score was 2.29 (SD 2.84, IQR 0–2), the mean urinary bladder intermediate score 1.75 (SD 1.73, IQR 0–2), and the mean upper urinary tract intermediate score 0.54 (SD 2.37, IQR 1–10). Abnormalities were more common among the 111 (65%) who were symptomatic (p < 0.02; OR 2.53; 95% CI 1.19–5.35). Symptoms started in 94/111 (85%) before arriving (median 63 months, IQR 12–119). At follow-up, we observed a significant reduction in the prevalence of UGS-related symptoms, blood, urine, and ultrasound abnormalities. Conclusions: Our study results support the use of ultrasound and praziquantel for assessing and reducing UGS-associated morbidity in migrants. Health-seeking behaviour, diagnostic, and treatment delays contribute to the advanced pathology and qualified treatment success. To ensure earlier treatment, based on our findings, clinical experience, and available literature, we propose an algorithm for the diagnosis and clinical management of UGS. Multicentre studies are needed to improve the management of subjects with UGS in non-endemic countries.