Neuroschistosomiasis is rarely observed in human pathology,
but it is of considerable importance. To investigate its pathogenesis, consequences
and response to treatment, an experimental model would be desirable, but
is not yet available, in spite of a few indications of a suitable mouse
model in the literature.
Severe, recent and late
Schistosoma mansoni
infections in outbred and inbred strains of mice revealed widespread distribution
of parasite eggs in several organs, but only exceptionally did eggs reach
the encephalus, thus revealing the inadequacy of the mouse as an experimental
model for neuroschistosomiasis.