Bleeding rectal polyp as an atypical presentation of intestinal schistosomiasis: A case report from Egypt

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis remains an important public health challenge in Egypt despite decades of control programs. Intestinal involvement is relatively common but usually presents with diffuse mucosal disease, ulcerations, or multiple polyps. A solitary bleeding rectal polyp as the sole manifestation is exceedingly rare and can be mistaken for inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal neoplasia. This report aims to highlight this diagnostic challenge within the Egyptian context. CASE PRESENTATION: A 28-year-old Egyptian male from a rural area presented with a 3-month history of intermittent lower abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. Physical examination was unremarkable except for mild lower abdominal tenderness and blood on digital rectal exam. Laboratory tests, including inflammatory markers, were normal; notably, stool microscopy was repeatedly negative for schistosome ova, despite the presence of RBCs and WBCs. Colonoscopy identified a solitary, pedunculated, and ulcerated rectal polyp (1.5 × 3.0 cm) at 20 cm from the anal verge, which was completely resected. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis by demonstrating viable Schistosoma mansoni ova within eosinophilic granulomas and, critically, an adult worm residing in the submucosal vasculature, confirming active infection.The patient achieved full clinical recovery after praziquantel therapy, and this case underscores the importance of integrating parasitological, endoscopic, and histopathological perspectives when managing atypical colorectal lesions in endemic regions. CONCLUSION: This case is a striking example of intestinal schistosomiasis masquerading as a sporadic colorectal neoplasm. In endemic regions like Egypt, schistosomiasis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of solitary rectal polyps, even with negative stool examinations. The definitive diagnosis hinges on histopathological analysis, which is indispensable for guiding correct management and avoiding unnecessary interventions. This report reinforces the ongoing, evolving challenge of schistosomiasis in Egypt post-control programs.