Mansonelliasis

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Mansonelliasis is a disease caused by the parasite Mansonella. It is transmitted through the bite of a midge, specifically the Culicoides species. The disease is prevalent in Africa, Central America, and South America, affecting millions of people.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Mansonelliasis are often mild and can include fever, headache, joint pain, and skin rash. In some cases, the disease can cause more serious complications such as eye disease and meningitis.

Transmission[edit | edit source]

Mansonelliasis is transmitted through the bite of a midge, specifically the Culicoides species. The midge becomes infected with the parasite when it feeds on an infected person. The parasite then develops in the midge's body before being transmitted to another person through a bite.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Mansonelliasis is typically made through a blood test. The test looks for the presence of the parasite in the blood. In some cases, a skin biopsy may also be performed.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Mansonelliasis typically involves antiparasitic drugs. These drugs work by killing the parasite. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the parasite.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of Mansonelliasis primarily involves avoiding bites from midges. This can be achieved through the use of insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

See also[edit | edit source]

Mansonelliasis Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

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) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. 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