Effects of Schistosoma mansoni infection and Mirazid treatment on pregnant mice and their fetuses

Abstract

A total of 48 female albino mice, with average weight 23 g, have been used in this study, divided into 4 groups (12 mice for each group). Groups I & II served as uninfected groups. Group II was subjected to pregnancy and received an oral dose of Mirazid (300 mg/Kg) (Pharco Pharmaceuticals, Alexandria, Egypt) for three consecutive days. Groups III and IV were infected subcutaneously with 60 ±10 Schistosoma mansoni cercariae (Egyptian strain) and were subjected to pregnancy. Group IV received an oral dose of Mirazid (300 mg/Kg). The results showed that the distribution of implantation sites of fetuses in the uterine horns was found unequal in infected groups which completed the pregnancy. The mean number of fetuses was smaller in infected, treated or both groups when compared with control groups. Also, there were many abortion cases, especially when infection progressed. In the present study, infection was found to induce some growth retardation among fetuses as compared with the control ones. Growth retardation was indicated by highly significant decrease in their body weight and length, abnormal skin and limbs, kinky tail, kyphotic body and hematoma formation. Treatment with Mirazid did not improve these malformation as well as control ones. In conclusion, more studies are needed regarding the relationship between the pregnancy and schistosomiasis as the present work reflects the deleterious effect of schistosomiasis on the pregnant mice and on the fetal outcomes. In addition, the results reflected, for the first time, the unsafely using of Mirazid during pregnancy where announcement should be clear to avoid Mirazid in treatment of schistosome-infected pregnant women.