Filarioidea

Filarioidea is a superfamily within the class of parasitic worms known as Nematoda. These worms are characterized by their long, thread-like bodies, hence the name "filariae". The superfamily includes several significant species that cause diseases in humans and animals, such as Onchocerca volvulus, which causes river blindness, and Wuchereria bancrofti, responsible for lymphatic filariasis.

Taxonomy

The Filarioidea superfamily is divided into two families: Onchocercidae and Dirofilariidae. The Onchocercidae family includes the genera Onchocerca, Brugia, Wuchereria, and others. The Dirofilariidae family includes the genera Dirofilaria, Acanthocheilonema, and others.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of filarial worms involves a definitive host, usually a mammal, and an intermediate host, a blood-feeding insect such as a mosquito. The adult worms live in the lymphatic system, blood vessels, or subcutaneous tissues of the definitive host, where they produce microfilariae. These microfilariae are ingested by the insect host during a blood meal. Inside the insect, the microfilariae develop into infective larvae, which are then transmitted to a new host during a subsequent blood meal.

Diseases

Filarial worms are responsible for several significant diseases in humans. Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, is caused by Onchocerca volvulus and is characterized by severe itching, skin lesions, and blindness. Lymphatic filariasis, caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, results in lymphedema, elephantiasis, and tropical pulmonary eosinophilia. Loiasis, caused by Loa loa, is characterized by migrating adult worms in the subcutaneous tissues, causing localized swelling known as Calabar swellings.

Treatment and Control

Treatment of filarial diseases involves the use of antiparasitic drugs, such as ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and albendazole. Control measures include vector control, preventive chemotherapy, and improved access to clean water and sanitation.

File:Life cycle of filarial worms.png

Life cycle of filarial worms

See Also

• Nematoda
• Onchocerciasis
• Lymphatic filariasis
• Loiasis

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