What type of granulomas can Schistosoma infections induce?

Schistosoma infections induce fibrotic granulomas primarily due to the body's immune response to the eggs of the parasite that can become trapped in tissues. As the immune system recognizes these foreign substances, it mounts a response that leads to the formation of granulomas. These granulomas are characterized by a fibrotic component which develops as a result of chronic inflammation and tissue repair processes. Over time, the fibroblasts and collagen deposition lead to the characteristic scarring and fibrosis seen in the host.

This type of granuloma is different from caseating granulomas typically seen in infections like tuberculosis, which involve necrotic tissue. Non-caseating granulomas, while also a response to certain infections or conditions like sarcoidosis, do not typically feature the same fibrotic changes found in those arising from schistosomiasis. Neutrophilic granulomas are mainly associated with acute inflammatory responses and do not represent the chronic, fibrotic process involved in Schistosoma infections. Understanding the context of these granulomas helps clarify the host's chronic inflammatory response and tissue remodeling that occurs during the infection.