Filariasis

Causative agents

  • Wuchereria bancrofti
  • Brugia malayi
  • Brugia timori

Transmission

By Mosquitoes from person to person. The larvae enter the body at the time of the mosquito bite and travel to the lymphatic system, where they mature into adult worms. Adult worms can live for years in the lymphatic system, and they produce immature forms that circulate in the blood.

Symptoms and signs of Filariasis

  • Elephantiasis
  • Swelling of the legs, arms, breasts and genitals
  • Chills and rigours
  • Excessive sweating
  • Headache
  • Pyrexia
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Nausea with or without vomiting
  • Eosinophilia

Investigations

  • Blood test CBC
  • Urine test
  • Blood smears

Treatment of Filariasis

The disease is completely curable with medicines.

Complications

  • Kidney damage
  • Hydrocele
  • Disfigurement
  • Sexual disability

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