Spinal Cord Schistosomiasis: A Rare and Severe Presentation of a Common Disease—A Case Report and Review of Literature

infection caused by ectopic deposition of parasite eggs within the spinal cord via Batson's vertebral venous plexus, resulting in granulomatous inflammation and neurological injury. Early diagnosis is challenging because the clinical presentation is often nonspecific and mimics other spinal cord disorders, particularly in resource-limited settings. We report the case of a 12-year-old Ethiopian boy who presented with progressive lower back and radicular pain, lower limb paresthesia, and intermittent low-grade fever without objective motor weakness, sensory deficits, or bladder dysfunction. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated intramedullary T2-weighted hyperintensity and swelling involving the conus medullaris, while positive schistosomal serology supported the diagnosis. Prompt treatment with praziquantel and corticosteroids resulted in complete clinical recovery without progression to neurological deficits or the need for surgical intervention. We also review the literature on SCS in endemic regions, highlighting the challenges of early diagnosis, current management strategies, and factors influencing neurological outcomes. This case demonstrates that maintaining a high index of suspicion and combining characteristic MRI findings with serological testing can facilitate early diagnosis and timely medical treatment before irreversible neurological damage occurs, leading to excellent clinical outcomes.