Schistosomiasis Treatment Has Become Significantly Sophisticated and Efficient Over the Years with the Advent of Effective Drugs

 

Schistosomiasis is a chronic skin infection caused by a protozoan called Schistosomium urinals. This protozoan is a parasite and it is very difficult to treat. The infection of the skin is caused by parasitic organisms that can grow up to 30 inches long. It can affect any part of the body although the most common parts are the scalp, armpits, eyebrows, eyelids, and neck. Schistosomiasis is one of the most stubborn skin diseases. Even after constant treatment, it could still recur in some cases. It is important to prevent the recurrence as the prolonging of the disease may lead to permanent scars or other complications. There are several treatments for the condition such as drugs, prescribed medications, and herbal remedies.

Drug treatments include antifungal medicines such as Terbinafine and Fluconazole which are usually applied topically. In most cases, these treatments do not provide effective results and they can even produce unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. For persistent cases, oral or injected anti-fungal agents are also used. However, these treatments are quite expensive and they only treat the symptoms of the disease and do not actually prevent the recurrence.

Another type of Schistosomiasis Treatment is the topical creams and lotions that contain broad-spectrum antifungal agents such as Miconazole, Clotrimazole, and Butoconazole. These creams are usually applied once a day and they have fewer or even no side effects. They can also be used safely and they have a lower chance of producing allergic reactions. Although these natural treatments have lesser risks than the previously mentioned drugs there are also some risks associated with them. For example, severe skin infections such as MRSA can develop when they are used. Natural schistosomiasis treatment options comprise herbal and plant extracts such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, menthol, capsaicin, garlic, and ginger. Herbal treatments are safe and effective and they do not produce any side effects. Recently, in 2018, the Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund announced to invest US$ 15.5 million to support the product development of new live-saving drugs for malaria, schistosomiasis, and tuberculosis.