n. 1 a tropical flatworm of the genus Schistosoma (formerly Bilharzia) which is parasitic in blood vessels in the human pelvic region. Also called SCHISTOSOME. 2 the chronic tropical disease produced by its presence. Also called BILHARZIASIS, SCHISTOSOMIASIS.
[ mod.L f. T. Bilharz, Ger. physician d. 1862 ]