# Appendicular Schistosomiasis Presenting as Peritonitis in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 17-year-old man from Yemen presented with appendicitis-like symptoms, but the cause was schistosomiasis, a rare parasitic infection.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the rare presentation of schistosomiasis as appendicular peritonitis.

## Key findings

- The patient's appendix showed schistosomal ova upon histopathological examination.
- The case emphasizes the need to consider parasitic infections in acute abdominal conditions in endemic regions.

## Abstract

We report the case of a 17-year-old Yemeni male with no prior medical or surgical history who presented with generalized abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhea. Initial clinical and radiological evaluations suggested diffuse peritonitis, with findings consistent with appendicitis. The patient underwent an open laparotomy and appendectomy, which revealed a perforated appendix with purulent contamination. Histopathological examination confirmed schistosomal ova in the appendix. Postoperative complications included a fluid collection, which was managed with targeted antibiotics. The patient was also treated with praziquantel and eventually recovered well. This case highlights the rare occurrence of schistosomiasis presenting as appendicular peritonitis and emphasizes the importance of considering parasitic infections in acute abdominal presentations, particularly in endemic regions.