What is the Bilharzia (Schistosome) Antibody Screen?

The Bilharzia Antibody Screen is a blood test that detects antibodies produced in response to infection with Schistosoma parasites. Bilharzia, also known as schistosomiasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted through contact with contaminated freshwater in endemic regions.

After exposure, the immune system produces antibodies that remain detectable even when parasites are no longer present in the bloodstream. This makes antibody testing particularly useful for identifying current or past infection, especially in individuals who may no longer be shedding parasite eggs.

The test is commonly used for screening travellers, migrants, or individuals with unexplained symptoms following freshwater exposure abroad.

Why do I need a test for Bilharzia?

You may need this test if you have lived in, travelled to, or had freshwater exposure in areas where schistosomiasis is endemic. Infection can be asymptomatic initially but may lead to long-term complications affecting the urinary tract, intestines, liver, lungs or nervous system.

Early detection allows prompt treatment, reducing the risk of chronic organ damage. The test is also useful when stool or urine tests are negative but clinical suspicion remains high.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Freshwater exposure in endemic regions
• Blood in urine or stool
• Abdominal pain or diarrhoea
• Chronic fatigue
• Unexplained eosinophilia
• Urinary or bowel symptoms after travel
• Liver or spleen enlargement
• Screening after migration from endemic areas

Benefits of the Bilharzia Antibody Screen

• Detects exposure to Schistosoma parasites
  Identifies immune response even when parasites are not detected directly.
• Useful for screening travellers and migrants
  Ideal for people exposed to freshwater abroad.
• Supports early diagnosis and treatment
  Reduces risk of long-term complications.
• Helpful when stool or urine tests are negative
  Improves diagnostic sensitivity.
• Assesses chronic or past infection
  Antibodies remain detectable over time.
• Non-invasive testing method
  Requires only a blood sample.
• Prevents organ damage through early intervention
  Supports timely antiparasitic treatment.
• Complements other parasitic investigations
  Useful alongside eosinophil counts and imaging.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for Schistosoma antibodies.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Access your report

You can download and share your results with your GP or infectious disease specialist.

Your Results Explained

Negative Result

No Schistosoma antibodies detected.
This suggests no evidence of current or past infection, although early infection cannot be fully excluded.

Borderline Result

Low-level antibodies may indicate early exposure or past infection.
Repeat testing or further investigation may be recommended.

Positive Result

Detectable antibodies suggest current or previous Schistosoma infection.
Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, exposure history and additional tests to guide treatment.