Cysticercosis, Schistosomiasis, and Leishmaniasis

Parasitic infections are quite common throughout the world. Clinicians are increasingly coming across parasitic infections, such as cysticercosis, schistosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, and leishmania owing to the increase in international travel and the recent immigration of persons from areas endemic to such diseases. Neurocysticercosis is a commonly overlooked cause of headaches, seizures, and visual disturbances in pregnancy. Schistosomiasis in pregnant women results in increased maternal and fetal mortality, the main cause being severe anemia due to infection. Early diagnosis and treatment with praziquantel can improve the prognosis. Leishmaniasis is an infection caused by the protozoa Leishmania species and spread by sandflies. Leishmaniasis in pregnancy mimics other diseases like malaria, brucellosis, typhoid fever, or acute Chagas disease. This chapter summarizes the clinical aspects, treatment, and potential toxicity of treatment for common parasitic infections (Cysticercosis, Schistosomiasis, and Leishmania) that might be encountered during pregnancy.