Possible causes of morphometric differences in Schistosoma haematobium eggs in Sohag (Upper Egypt)‎

Abstract EN

Eggs of Schistosoma spp.

are ofparticular taxonomic importance.

Minor variations in morphometry of egg or spine may denote a different species, variety or strain.

Eggs of Schistosoma haematobium were detectedfrom five urinary bilharzial cases.

They were of different ages (6-29 years old) and different worm burdens (egg count varied from 5-375 eggs/1 ml urine).

Previous treatment was also taken in consideration.

Eggs were subjected to microscopical examination.

Wide variations were observed in the egg measurements.

Abnormal morphology was also observed.

Unfertilized eggs were observed for the first time.

These were generally smaller in size than fertile eggs, and showed some deformity in their outline and contain few different- sized refractile granules.

It is concluded that S.haematobium in Egyptian patients may belong to different strains that have eggs variable in measurements and shapes.

Cross-fertilization between different species may affect the morphometry of the resultant eggs and may also be responsible for the deformities described during the present study.