Mansonella

Mansonella is a genus of parasitic nematodes in the family Onchocercidae. They are transmitted by biting midges (Culicoides species) and blackflies (Simulium species). The three main species that infect humans are Mansonella perstans, Mansonella ozzardi, and Mansonella streptocerca.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Mansonella species involves two hosts: a human host and an insect host. The adult worms live in the human body, and the females produce microfilariae, which circulate in the blood. When a biting midge or blackfly takes a blood meal, it ingests the microfilariae. Inside the insect, the microfilariae develop into infective larvae. When the insect bites another human, the larvae are transmitted and can develop into adult worms.

Clinical Manifestations

Infections with Mansonella species are often asymptomatic. However, some people may experience symptoms such as skin rash, itching, joint pain, and fatigue. In rare cases, the infection can cause more serious complications, such as arthritis, pericarditis, and eye lesions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Mansonella infection is based on the detection of microfilariae in blood samples. This can be done using various techniques, such as thick blood smears, thin blood smears, and concentration methods.

Treatment

The treatment for Mansonella infection is usually with the antiparasitic drug diethylcarbamazine (DEC). However, this drug is not always effective, and there is currently no vaccine available.

Epidemiology

Mansonella species are found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. They are particularly common in rural and remote areas where biting midges and blackflies are prevalent.

Prevention

Prevention of Mansonella infection involves avoiding bites from midges and blackflies. This can be achieved by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

See Also

• Onchocerciasis
• Filariasis
• Parasitic diseases

References

Mansonella Resources
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