Morbidity of Schistosomiasis mansoni in rural Alexandria, Egypt

ABSTRACT

A parasitological survey of stool and urine of 2577 from 3281 individuals living in Abis village, Alexandria, was undertaken in 1998 in order to investigate the prevalence of schistosomiasis in this area and the risk factors for hepatic morbidity. A random sample of 1082 individuals was interviewed using a questionnaire regarding the risk factors for liver morbidity. All interviewed adults [total 728] were clinically examined for an evidence of organomegaly [hepatomegaly and/or splenomegaly]. Individuals with clinically detected organomegaly were referred for detailed investigations [total 65]. The criteria for severe hepatic morbidity were AST/ALT ratio higher than 1, prothrombin activity <70% and an evidence of portal hypertension