Cirrhosis And Bilharzial Fibrosis Of The Liver In Rhodesia

Bilharziasis is a very common disease in Southern Africa. In Rhodesia infections with both S. haematobium and S. mansorti are common (Blair, 1965; Clarke, 1966). Amongst the organs in which bilharzial ova are frequently deposited is the liver. Two types of lesion may result. The first, and by far the commonest, is produced when the ova reach the small portal radicles. The ovum dies and a small granuloma, called a pseudo tubercle, is formed (Fig. 1). This heals to leave a tiny fibrous nodule (Fig. 2) * The extent of damage to liver cells is minimal, so general health is unimpaired.

A CAJM article on cirrhosis and bilharzia prevalence in Zimbabwe.