Inflammation in schistosomiasis.

The inflammatory reactions that occur in schistosomiasis are reviewed. The inlammation is due to the migration of worms and eggs through the host's tissues via the vascular system. The greatest damage to the host is produced by the eggs which induce an extensive granulomatous inflammation in the intestine and liver. While the host modulates the course of the disease by developing a cell mediated immunity, ultimately the inflammation in the liver interferes with portal blood flow that may lead to portal hypertension, portal-systemic shunts and fatal hematemesis.