Comparison of three real-time polymerase chain reaction protocols for the diagnosis of imported schistosomiasis in a non-endemic setting.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that mostly affects inhabitants of sub-Saharan Africa. With rising global migration, imported cases of schistosomiasis are increasingly being reported in non-endemic countries, where diagnosis is hindered by low parasite burdens and multiple Schistosoma species. Microscopy remains the gold standard, despite its limitations, whereas molecular techniques offer greater sensitivity. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocols for the detection, at an international health centre in Barcelona, of imported cases of urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 75 adults from sub-Saharan Africa attending the Drassanes-Vall

SUBMITTER: Martinez-Vallejo P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12859907 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature