Elephantiasis

What is Elephantiasis ??
Elephantiasis or Lymphatic Filariasis, is a rare disorder of the lymphatic system caused by parasitic worms such as Wuchereria bancroftiBrugia malayi, and B. timori, all of which are transmitted by mosquitos. Inflammation of the lymphatic vessels causes extreme enlargement of the affected area, most commonly a limb or parts of the head and torso. It occurs most commonly in tropical regions and particularly in parts of Africa. 


What cause it ?

 


The result of obstruction of the lymph flow and possibly of blood circulation. The lymphatic blockage can be due to recurrent attacks of a bacterial infection which causes inflammation of the lymphatic vessels (streptococcal lymphangitis). 

When the lymphatic obstruction is large enough, back pressure in the lymphatic channels produces dilation of the superficial vessels, resulting in extreme swelling. Without medical intervention, the cycle continues until the affected area is grotesquely enlarged. Death of surrounding tissues may also occur from an obstructed blood supply (gangrene).

Recent studies have shown that a possible cause of elephantiasis in Africa may be related to the red soil on which certain barefooted populations live. It is believed that small chemical particles found in the soil may enter the skin through the bare feet. 

These particles then lodge in the lymphatic tissues and produce irritating effects. The traumatized tissue is then vulnerable to streptococcal infection. 

What treatment can be done ?
Treatment can include chemotherapy to attack the adult worms as well as symptomatic treatment to repair damage caused by the body's reaction to the presence of dead worms. Drugs including Suramin (Antrypol ), Diethylcarbamazine (DEC, Heterazan, Banocide, and Notezine ), Ivermectin (Mectizan), Metrifonate (Trichlorphon), Mebendazole and Levamisole have shown to be effective in treating conditions associated with a filarial infection. 

Failure of the Lymphatic system due to an infection provides an opportunity for microbial infections to develop. These infections can be minimized by proper anisepticalyl hygenic care. Surgery can be performed to remove or bypass damaged lymphatic regions.





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