Large Colon Polyp as the Only Manifestation of Chronic Schistosomiasis Infection

Abstract

Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is a parasitic infection caused by the blood fluke of phylum Platyhelminthes, recognized for significant morbidity in endemic areas. 1,2 We present a case of a patient with colonic polyp as the only manifestation of chronic Schistosoma infection.

Schistosomal (bilharzial) polyps: Travel through the colon and beyond

“…We reported earlier[ 20 ] that, no part of the colon was immune against development of large S. polyps. Many cases presented with solitary S. polyps[ 13 , 16 , 19 , 21 ] even in absence of any Schistosomiasis-related colon inflammation[ 9 , 13 , 16 , 19 , 21 ].…”

“…In fact, there is no characteristic morphology for S. polyps[ 45 ]. The huge polyps are commonly mistaken as malignant polyps (Figure 1B ) and in such cases diagnosis is achieved through histopathology either by biopsy or after excision[ 19 , 21 , 22 ].…”

“…Hot polypectomy after application of endoloop[ 52 ], or clips[ 13 ] has been associated with good outcomes. While advanced endoscopic resection techniques including endoscopic mucosal resection[ 21 , 22 ] and endoscopic submucosal dissection[ 53 ] were also used for endoscopic removal of large S. polyps. All endoscopic resection techniques were used with accepted safety profile.…”