Abstract
Specimens of living S. mansoni worms and Biomphalaria alexandrina snails were grounded separately into sterile mortar after adding 5ml. of sterile saline. After centrifugation sterile supernatant were tested for 1. HCV Antigen by ElISA 2. Detection of HCV-RNA by RT-PCR 3. HCV-RNA quantitation Results: 1. HCV-Antigen: Worms, Miracidia, Snails and Cercariae of S. mansoni were Positive for HCV-Ag. The Snails gave strong positive result. Eggs gave negative result. 2. HCV-RNA by RT-PCR: Worms, Miracidia, Snails and Cercariae of S. mansoni tested for HCV-RNA By Qualitative RT-PCR were Positive. The eggs gave negative result. 3. HCV-RNA Quantitation: Miracidia were positive (800 Copies/ml) and Snails were positive (1100 Copies/ml) while other specimens gave negative results. Conclusions: 1. Existence of virus and its replication in parasite 2. S. mansoni parasite carries HCV and considered as a non-human vector for transmission of HCV infection 3. Parasitic and viral co-infection will change already known pathology of hepatic schistosomiasis from periportal fibrosis to cirrhosis with its expected outcome of hepatic decompansation as well as the development of HCC.
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