Filarioidea

Filarioidea is a superfamily of parasitic roundworms belonging to the order Spirurida. These worms are known for causing a group of diseases called filariasis in humans and other animals. The adult worms reside in the tissues of the host, where they produce larvae known as microfilariae.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Filarioidea involves two hosts: a vertebrate host and an arthropod vector. The adult worms live in the vertebrate host, where they produce microfilariae that circulate in the bloodstream or skin. These microfilariae are ingested by a blood-feeding arthropod, such as a mosquito or blackfly, during a blood meal. Inside the vector, the microfilariae develop into infective larvae, which are then transmitted to a new vertebrate host when the vector feeds again.

Diseases Caused

Filarioidea are responsible for several significant diseases in humans, including:

• Lymphatic filariasis, caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori.
• Onchocerciasis (river blindness), caused by Onchocerca volvulus.
• Loiasis, caused by Loa loa.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of filarial infections typically involves the detection of microfilariae in blood samples or skin snips. Serological tests and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) can also be used to detect filarial DNA. Treatment often includes the use of anthelmintic drugs such as ivermectin, albendazole, and diethylcarbamazine.

Prevention

Preventive measures include vector control strategies, such as the use of insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying. Mass drug administration (MDA) programs aim to reduce the prevalence of filarial infections in endemic areas.

See Also

• Nematode
• Parasitology
• Vector-borne disease

External Links

• CDC - Filariasis
• WHO - Lymphatic Filariasis