What is a common finding in the complete blood count (CBC) of a patient with schistosomiasis?

In patients with schistosomiasis, elevated eosinophil levels are commonly observed in a complete blood count (CBC) due to the immune response triggered by the parasitic infection. Schistosomiasis is caused by trematode worms, and the body responds to these parasites through a Th2 immune response, which includes the activation of eosinophils. These white blood cells play a crucial role in combating parasitic infections and are typically elevated in conditions associated with helminthic infections like schistosomiasis.

This immune reaction not only involves increased eosinophil production but also often includes other markers such as elevated IgE levels. The presence of eosinophilia is, therefore, a characteristic finding during the diagnosis and follow-up of schistosomiasis, providing valuable insight into the patient's immune status and the presence of the infection.

While there may be changes in other cell lines such as neutrophils or platelets, those are not specific indicators associated with schistosomiasis as elevated eosinophils are.