Wuchereria bancrofti ,Brungia species : lymphatic filriasis

Question 1

Discuss the general lifecycle for filarial worms

Answer 1

*Vector feeds on human host > transmitting the larval which develops into an adult worm in tissues > after mating, the female worm produces offsprings called microfilariae into the bloodstream/tissues > vectors ingest microfilariae with blood > microfilariae follows larval development resulting in infective stages

Question 2

Discuss the pathogenesis of lymphatic filariasis

Answer 2

Damage to the lymphatics is mediated both by the inflammatory response to the adult worm and the direct action of the parasite

Question 3

Discuss the immunity of lymphatic filariasis

Answer 3

• Characterized by raised eosinophilia and IgE may help provide Antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity )but can also contribute to immunopathology
• lymphatic pathology + microfilaraemia = higher levels of IgE and IgG3
• Asymptomatic + microfilaraemia = higher levels of IgG4 and REDUCED T CELL PROLIFERATION

Question 4

Clinical features of bancroftian filariasis

Answer 4

• actual lymphangitis and lymphadenitis +fevers and chills
• Inguinal glands and spermatic cord lymphatics are affected
• following recurrent infection funiculitis, hydrocoele
• elephantiasis

Question 5

Diagnosis for lymphatic filariasis

Answer 5

• 21:00-03:00 for nocturnally periodic forms
• mf finding in blood
• Giemsa-stained thick and thin smear will be positive
• IFAT (Indirect Fluorescence Antibody test) and ELISA

Question 6

Treatment for Lymphatic filariasis

Answer 6

1.Surgery ; For