Loa loa filariasis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Fugitive swelling)

L loa whole HBa.jpg
L loa LifeCycle.gif


Loa loa filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by the Loa loa worm, a type of filarial nematode. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected deer fly or mango fly belonging to the genus Chrysops. The disease is endemic in certain regions of West Africa and Central Africa.

Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptoms of Loa loa filariasis include Calabar swelling, which are localized, non-painful swellings that appear on the arms and legs. These swellings are often accompanied by itching and joint pain. In some cases, the adult worms can be seen migrating under the skin or across the conjunctiva of the eye, causing significant discomfort.

Complications[edit | edit source]

If left untreated, Loa loa filariasis can lead to severe complications such as encephalitis and kidney damage. The presence of the worms in the body can trigger an immune response that may result in these serious conditions.

Transmission[edit | edit source]

The disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer fly or mango fly. These flies are most active during the day and are commonly found in the rainforests of West Africa and Central Africa. When the fly bites a human, it deposits larvae that mature into adult worms within the host.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Loa loa filariasis is typically made through a blood smear test, which can detect the presence of microfilariae in the blood. Serology tests may also be used to identify antibodies against the Loa loa worm.

Differential diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Loa loa filariasis must be differentiated from other filarial diseases such as onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis. These conditions have similar symptoms but are caused by different species of worms.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include avoiding insect bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using bed nets. Prophylactic medication such as diethylcarbamazine can also be taken by individuals living in or traveling to endemic areas.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The primary treatment for Loa loa filariasis is diethylcarbamazine, which is effective in killing both the adult worms and the microfilariae. Ivermectin may also be used, although it is primarily effective against the microfilariae.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD