S1777 Polyps and an Uninvited Host

Abstract

Introduction: Blood fluke illness like Schistosomiasis is considered rare in the United States. Most cases are reported in patients that have migrated from endemic zones like Africa or Asia. Occasionally this infection is seen in individuals from non-endemic regions whereby travel history plays an important role in diagnosis. Zoonotic diseases can be life threatening, thus prompt treatment is crucial to avoid major complications. Herein, we present an European individual living in the United States who underwent routine colon cancer screening in which the polyps that were biopsied revealed calcified Schistosoma eggs. Case Description/Methods: A 67-years-old male with past medical history of hypertension, goiter, and hyperlipidemia presented to the outpatient gastroenterology clinic for routine screening. Coloscopy done showed multiple colonic polyps, the largest being 1 cm in diameter. Pathology reported tubular adenomatous polyps with calcified Schistosoma eggs. Patient was asymptomatic and the physical exam was benign. On social and travel history, he pointed out that he lived in Angola from 1971-1973. Treatment with Praziquantel 600 mg three times daily was started, and the patient was asked to be followed up in 3 months. Negative serology was reported after treatment. Colonoscopy done 3 years later showed complete resolution of the polyps. Discussion: Schistosoma is a blood fluke causing Bilharziasis, an infection caused by freshwater parasitic worms. The parasite itself can be found living in certain freshwater snails. About 5 Schistosoma species have been identified to infect the human body with S. Mansoni and S. Japinicum being the main culprit for intestinal disease. Schistosomiasis is more prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa with approximately 200 million cases reported worldwide. Infection occurs once the cercariae released by the snail penetrates the skin and begins its life cycle. Most individuals are asymptomatic. Migrating eggs cause bowel inflammation by triggering granulomatous reactions resulting in ulcerations, blood loss, and scaring. The same is true for Host immune response. The most common symptoms for intestinal Schistosomiasis are chronic intermittent abdominal pain, poor appetite, and diarrhea. Chronic ulcerations can be seen in severe cases with strictures as late complications. A combination of Polypectomy plus Praziquantel is often use as treatment. Follow up Colonoscopy to assure resolution is recommended.Figure 1.: Endoscopic mucosal removal of a Cecal granular cell tumor.