Diagnosis

For diagnosing urinary schistosomiasis, a simple sedimentation can be used efficiently. A syringe filtration technique using filter paper, or polycarbonate or nylon filters, allows a 5-person team to examine up to 200 children in 90 minutes. The eggs of intestinal schistosomiasis can be detected in faecal specimens by sedimentation or a technique using cellophane soaked in glycerine, or between glass slides. Children with S. haematobium nearly always have microscopic or visual blood in their urine (haematuria). Children needing treatment can be also be identified by looking at urine specimens or checking for microscopic blood with chemical reagent strips. The cost of tests needing a microscope is US 1 cent or less, and with chemical reagent strips about US 5 cents.