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.
Etymology: mod.L f. T. Bilharz, Ger. physician d. 1862