The Katayama syndrome in Saudis.

Five Saudi boys visited an endemic area of schistosomiasis and developed 'swimmers itch' after swimming for the first time in infected ponds. After 4-6 weeks, they were admitted to hospital with fever and other symptoms. They were diagnosed as exhibiting Katayama syndrome because of marked eosinophilia and because the faeces showed Schistosoma mansoni eggs. On admission, schistosomal serological tests showed evidence of exposure in three patients. Four patients were treated with praziquantel, and the fifth was given oxamniquine. Following 3-6 days (mean 4.8 days) of treatment, they became asymptomatic. The eosinophilia decreased, liver functions improved and were normal 3 months later. Evidence is presented that early treatment of Katayama syndrome with anti-schistosomal drugs will alter the course of the acute illness and will halt the progress of the disease.