Filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis or lymphatic filariasis, is an infectious disease caused by the wuchereria bancrofti parasite that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of the infected culex five-quinquefasciatus mosquito.
The parasite responsible for filariasis can develop in the body by moving to organs and lymphoid tissues, which can cause inflammation and fluid buildup in various parts of the body, mainly legs, arms and testicles. However, this situation is not observed until months after infection with the parasite and the person may be asymptomatic during this period.
- Treatment of filariasis is simple and should be done according to the doctor’s advice.
- With the use of pest control and physiotherapy with lymphatic drainage indicated when there is damage to the arms and legs.
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Symptoms of filariasis can take up to 12 months to appear, as the larva transmitted to humans should become its adult form and then begin to release microfilariae. These microfilariae, also called L1 larvae, develop in blood and lymphatic flow to the adult worm stage, with the release of more microfilariae.
Therefore, as the parasite develops and migrates through the body, it stimulates inflammatory reactions and may promote blockage of lymph vessels in certain organs, resulting in a buildup of fluid in the region, as fluid buildup in the leg is more common. . or in the testicle, in the case of men.
Thus, it is common for the infected person to remain asymptomatic for months, with signs and symptoms appearing when there is a large amount of parasite in circulation, the main being:
Diagnosis of filariasis is made by the family doctor or infectious disease by assessing the signs and symptoms presented by the person and the result of the tests to identify the presence of circulating microfilariae in the blood, for which a blood test is indicated. that should be taken, preferably at night, during which time the highest concentration of the parasite in the blood is controlled.
In addition to parasitological blood tests, molecular or immunological tests may also be indicated to identify parasitic structures or the presence of antigens or antibodies produced by the body against Wuchereria bancrofti. An imaging test, such as an ultrasound, may also be appropriate to check for the presence of adult worms in the lymph channels.
Transmission of filariasis is caused exclusively by the bite of the infected Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito. This mosquito, when it feeds on blood, that is, when it bites the person to feed on blood, releases L3 larvae into the person’s bloodstream, which corresponds to the infectious form of the parasite Wuchereria bancrofti.
The L3 larvae in the person’s blood migrate to the lymph vessels and develop to stage L5, which corresponds to the stage of sexual maturity, that is, corresponds to the adult phase of the person. At this stage, the parasite releases microfilariae and results in signs and symptoms of filariasis. To better understand what the life cycle of Wuchereria bancrofti is like.
Treatment of filariasis is done with pest control agents or infectious diseases recommended by general practitioners who work by eliminating microfilariae, and the use of diethylcarbamazine or ivermectine associated with albendazole may be recommended.
If the adult worm has infiltrated organs, surgery to remove excess fluid may be recommended, as this procedure is more recommended for hydrocele, in which fluid builds up in the testicle. Learn more about hydrocele.
In addition, if fluid has accumulated in another organ or limb, it is recommended that the person rest the affected limb and perform physiotherapy sessions with lymphatic drainage, as this allows to recover the mobility of the limb and improve the quality of life. .
In some cases, it is also possible to have a secondary infection with bacteria or fungi, being recommended by the doctor in these cases the use of antibiotics or antifungals depending on the infectious agent.
The prevention of filariasis involves the adoption of measures to prevent the bite of the mosquito vector of filariasis. That’s why it’s important to use mosquito nets, repellents, and clothing that covers most of your skin. In addition, it is recommended to avoid stagnant water and waste accumulation, as it is possible to reduce the amount of mosquitoes in the environment.