4. Filariasis

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

• Brugia Malayi (microfilatia worm) by Mansonia mosquito
• elephantiasis
• resides in subcutaneous tissues and lymphatics of humans

Question 2

Clinical Manifestations

Answer 2

• asymptomatic microfilaraemia is common
• apisodic fever and chills
• acute recurrent lymphadenitis (enlargement of 1 or more lymph nodes)
• epididymitis
• recurrent lymphatic inflammation may lead to chronic lymphatic obstruction; thickened swollen hyperkeratotic skin

Question 3

Treatments

Answer 3

• antifilarial drugs (Diethylcarbamazepine citrate)
• antibiotics
• antipyretic (paracetamol)
• topical anti fungal
• corticosteroids