Causes and risk factors
A mosquito which is infected with infective stage of the parasite, bites the human being the parasite is deposited on the skin, from the skin it enters the body. The infective larva then migrates to the lymphatic system where it develops into the adult worm. The adultwoms produce millions of microfilaria which circulate in the blood. When a mosquito bites the infected human being the microfilaria enter the body of the mosquito and the cycle continues. Certain risks factors have also been laid down. People suffering from diseases like tuberculosis, HIV where the immunity is compromised are at high risk for developing the infection. Poor sanitary areas are more prone for such infection. It is prevalent in endemic areas.
Clinical presentation:
In most of the cases the patient remains asymptomatic initially. Gradually the kidney and the lymphatic system are affected. As the drainage of the fluids is affected there occurs accumulation of the fluid resulting in swelling of different areas. Breast, arms and lower extremities are swollen (lymphoedema). In males the swelling of the external genitals occurs (Hydrocele). Overtime the defense mechanism of the body breaks down which makes the body easily susceptible to the various bacterial infection of the skin and lymphatic system. Hardening and thickening of the skin along with swelling of different parts of the body occurs this condition is known as elephantiasis. It is a painful condition and leads to disfigurement of limbs. Filarial infection can also affect the lungs resulting in pulmonary eosinophilia syndrome characterize by cough, shortness of breath and wheezing.
Investigations:
The diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and physical examination carried by the doctor. Peripheral blood smear helps to detect the microfilaria. Serological tests for IgE and blood test for antifilarial antibodies is done. Certain other routine investigations can also be advised.
Treatment:
Yearly administration of the antifilarial drugs is the choice of treatment. Although the adult worm cannot be killed by these medications it can kill the microfilaria and prevent the transmission of the infection. In cases where the swelling already exits essential care needs to be taken. The affected areas must be washed with water and soap and proper care and dressing of the wound must be done. Elevation of the affected area and exercises to improve the lymphatic drainage needs to be implemented. Along with this use of mosquito repellants; bed nets and long sleeved covered clothes can be helpful to prevent oneself from the mosquito bite. Proper hygiene and maintenance of sanitation should be adopted.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine uses herbal and certain synthetically prepared medicines. These can also be effective to combat the symptoms.
