What part of the body does elephantiasis affect?

What part of the body does elephantiasis affect?

The main symptom of elephantiasis is gross enlargement and swelling of an area of the body because of the accumulation of fluid. The arms and legs are the areas most often affected. An entire arm or leg may swell to several times its normal size resembling the thick, round appearance of an elephant’s leg.

Where do microfilariae live?

The adult worm lives in the human lymph vessels, mates, and produces millions of microscopic worms, also known as microfilariae. Microfilariae circulate in the person’s blood and infect the mosquito when it bites a person who is infected. Microfilariae grow and develop in the mosquito.

Where do filarial worms live in the human body?

The adult worms only live in the human lymph system. The lymph system maintains the body’s fluid balance and fights infections.

How are humans infected by elephantiasis?

Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease. Infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. Infection is usually acquired in childhood causing hidden damage to the lymphatic system.

Is elephantiasis common in India?

The clinical manifestations of LF may vary from one endemic area to another. Generally, the most common clinical form of the disease is hydrocele, with lymphoedema and elephantiasis occurs less commonly. In India and neighbouring countries, both hydrocele and lymphoedema are common.

Where is elephantiasis most common?

Elephantiasis is considered a neglected tropical disease (NTD). It’s more common in tropical and subtropical areas of the world, including Africa and Southeast Asia. It’s estimated that 120 million people have elephantiasis.

Where can you get elephantiasis?

Which countries have elephantiasis?

Countries, territories and areas in the WHO Western Pacific Region:

• American Samoa (USA)
• Australia.
• Brunei Darussalam.
• Cambodia.
• China.
• Cook Islands.
• Fiji.
• French Polynesia (France)

Is there any cure for elephantiasis?

There are medicines to treat elephantiasis. Your doctor may give you one called diethylcarbamazine (DEC). You’ll take it once a year. It will kill the microscopic worms in your bloodstream.

In which part of India is elephantiasis common?

Trend and present endemicity of the filariasis in India State of Bihar has highest endemicity (over 17%) followed by Kerala (15.7%) and Uttar Pradesh (14.6%). Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have about 10% endemicity.

What countries have elephantiasis?

Is there a cure for elephant legs?

Where is elephantiasis most common in the world?

Elephantiasis is considered a neglected tropical disease (NTD). It’s more common in tropical and subtropical areas of the world, including Africa and Southeast Asia.

What causes Elephantiasis in the lymphatic system?

Elephantiasis is usually of two main types, namely lymphatic filariasis and non filarial elephantiasis. Lymphatic filariasis elephantiasis is caused by elephantitis parasites or worms that harm the lymphatic system of the body.

What are the symptoms of elephantiasis in legs?

The legs are the most commonly affected area. The swelling and enlargement of body parts can lead to pain and mobility issues. The skin is also affected and may be: Some people experience additional symptoms, such as fever and chills. Elephantiasis affects the immune system.

Are there any other disorders similar to elephantiasis?

Symptoms of the following disorders can be similar to those of elephantiasis. Comparisons may be useful for a differential diagnosis. Hereditary lymphedema is an inherited disorder of the lymphatic system that is characterized by abnormal swelling of certain parts of the body.