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160 THIRD WHO REPORT ON NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES
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Research priorities
That 14.4% of people requiring treatment for schistomasiasis were reached in 2012 highlights
the limited resources and tools available. Priorities for research have been outlined, but the
new sciences have had limited impact on control (10,11). Control strategies depend on limited
epidemiological surveys. Sensitive and specific diagnostic tests would better define endemic
areas, targeting treatment and accurate monitoring. Antigen tests are more sensitive than the
Kato–Katz technique for intestinal schistosomiasis; their utility and cost-effectiveness await
assessment (12). Detection of schistosome DNA in definitive and intermediate hosts has been
evaluated but tests are not available (13,14).
Praziquantel remains efficacious and the mainstay of schistosomiasis control, but its use
in integrated helminthiasis control is limited. New medicines are required, as are models for
testing them and their cost-effectiveness.
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