Spinal cord schistosomiasis is a serious but treatable presentation of Schistosoma mansoni infection ^1,2. Early diagnosis and rapid therapy are fundamental for the prevention of irreversible neurological sequelae ^1,2.

This case illustrates the typical MRI granular pattern of enhancement of schistosomal myeloradiculopathy at the distal cord and conus medullaris. The evidence of exposure to this parasitic was by rectal biopsy with positive histopathologic study for Schistosoma mansoni. This patient responded to praziquantel and steroid therapy and recovered well.

Case courtesy

• Erick Cavalcanti, MD - PGY-3, Radiology Resident, Department of Radiology
• Antonio Rodrigues de Aguiar Neto, MD - Radiologist, Department of Radiology
• Hospital da Restauração – Recife, PE – Brazil