Prevalence and severity of pulmonary hypertension in asymptomatic rural residents with schistosomal infection in the Nile Delta

Objectives Millions of people in the developing world may suffer from pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) because of preexisting infectious conditions. Schistosomiasis can cause pulmonary lesions that eventually lead to PHTN. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of PHTN together with assessment of right ventricular (RV) function in asymptomatic rural residents previously infected with schistosomiasis. methods Three hundred and seventy asymptomatic people from an endemic area in the Nile Delta were screened for antibodies against schistosomiasis. All were scheduled for transthoracic echocardiographic study to assess pulmonary artery systolic (PASP) and diastolic (PADP) pressures as well as RV function. PASP > 40 mmHg was considered elevated. results Seropositive (SP) and seronegative (SN) groups had comparable age and body mass index. PASP > 40 mmHg was met in 18 subjects (Range 42- 72 mmHg) (8.6%) of SP group and in no subject in SN group (P = 0.000). Compared with SN group, the SP group had higher mean values of PASP (30 +/- 10 vs. 24 +/- 7 mmHg, P < 0.000) and PADP (12 +/- 4 vs. 9 +/- 3 mmHg, P < 0.000). The SP group had lower values of RV ejection fraction. conclusion Prevalence of PHTN as detected by echocardiography in asymptomatic rural residents with schistosomiasis in Nile Delta is low with mild affection of RV function.