摘要
Purpose:To assess the effect of praziquantel(PZQ)treatment on liver echotexture and diameters of the portal and splenic veins.Materials and methods:This was a prospective study involving 86 known cases of schistosomiasis;these cases were examined via gray-scale sonography in 3-month intervals for a period of 6 months.The patients were categorized into two groups based on whether or not they were treated with PZQ.The liver,spleen,main portal vein(PV),and splenic vein(SV)were evaluated sonographically using 3.5-curvilinear transducers,according to a standard abdominal ultrasound protocol.Results:The liver echotexture and size were significantly recovered in patients who received PZQ therapy compared to those who did not use the drug(p-values<0.001).PZQ caused significant reduction in diameters of the PV and SV(p-value<0.001).Conclusion:Liver size and echotexture and diameters of PV and SV improved well as a result of Praziquantel therapy in patients with chronic Schistosoma infection.Treatment of Schistosomiasis is necessary to prevent liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
