Parasites Infecting the Urinary Tract

Helminths and, to a lesser extent, protozoan parasites could affect different organs of the urinary tract. These parasites could reach the body through different modes of infection, e.g., penetration of the skin (Schistosoma haematobium), a bite of vector (Wuchereria bancrofti and Plasmodium), or through direct contact with an infected person (Trichomonas vaginalis). In many parts of the world, particularly underdeveloped countries, these parasites are recognized to be endemic with severe health and economic problems. Parasites of the urinary tract could be responsible for the following manifestations: terminal and total hematuria caused by Schistosoma haematobium; cystitis and cancer bladder caused by Schistosoma haematobium; also, dysuria and frequency of micturition due to infection with Schistosoma haematobium and Trichomonas vaginalis; ureteric stenosis, hydronephrosis, and renal failure caused by Schistosoma haematobium; and chyluria noticed during infection with Wuchereria bancrofti. Parasites of the urinary tract could be one of the following: parasites directly infect the urinary tract, e.g., Schistosoma haematobium and Trichomonas vaginalis; or parasites with multisystem effects, e.g., Wuchereria bancrofti, P. falciparum, and P. malariae. Also, they could be insects such as Fannia causing urinary myiasis.