Long-term follow-up of schistosomiasis serology post-treatment in Australian Travelers and Immigrants

Abstract

Background. We undertook an observational follow-up study of schistosomiasis serology in both travelers and immigrants in a nonendemic country to determine the natural history of schistosomiasis antibody titer post-adequate treatment in those who have not been reexposed. Methods. Longitudinal study of all adult travelers and immigrants presenting to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia with positive schistosomiasis serology (titer >1: 64) between July 1995 and December 2005. All patients were treated with praziquantel and followed up clinically and serologically for a period up to 30 months. Results. A total of 58 patients were included in the study including 26 travelers and 32 immigrant..