Which type of white blood cell increases in patients with schistosomiasis?
Patients with schistosomiasis may exhibit elevated eosinophil levels. The detailed analysis is as follows:
Schistosomiasis is typically a chronic parasitic infection caused by parasites living in the human circulatory system. Schistosomiasis is mainly transmitted through water contaminated by Schistosoma eggs, and infected patients as well as carriers also serve as important sources of infection. The disease has a certain incubation period; in the early stages of infection, patients often show no obvious symptoms. As the condition progresses, some patients may develop discomfort such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Schistosomiasis can cause changes in white blood cell differential counts, most notably an increase in eosinophils, which is usually due to immune responses triggered by allergic reactions and parasitic infections. Schistosomiasis may also activate immune cells such as macrophages and T cells, but it does not significantly alter the number of these cells.
When experiencing physical discomfort, patients should seek medical attention promptly. Before drinking water, it is advisable to consume boiled or hot water and avoid using raw or untreated water for drinking or washing. In daily life, individuals should also refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption and undergo regular health check-ups.