When symptoms do occur (often years later), they can lead to extensive disfigurement and disability.
These symptoms are permanent and can be so debilitating that they keep people from working.
The three most visible and concerning manifestations of lymphatic filariasis are lymphedema, elephantiasis, and hydrocele.
Caitlin M. Worrell, MPH/CDC/CDC Connects
This inflammation can sometimes be accompanied by fever and be quite painful.
Elephantiasis
Elephantiasis is when the skin and underlying tissues become abnormally thick.
Hydrocele
Some men infected with the parasite develop swelling in their scrotum.
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An estimated 25 million men worldwide are believed to have hydrocele as a result of lymphatic filariasis.
The overwhelming majority of cases (90%) are due toWuchereria bancrofti.
Transmission
Much like malaria, these roundworms spread from person to person through mosquito bites.
Mosquitoes aren’t just carriers, they’re also an important part of the worm’s life cycle.
And on and on it goes.
These secondary infections are what causes the elephantiasis, or hardening of the skin and tissues.
Diagnosis
There are two primary ways lymphatic filariasis is typically diagnosed: blood smears or assays.
The worms are only active at night, so the sample should be taken then.
This is the cheapest and more practical way to test for the parasite.
Alternatively, serologic testing can also be used for diagnosis.
These antibodies can be detected using routine assays done on blood samples.
A Word From Verywell
Lymphatic filariasis is extremely rare in North America and Europe.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Parasites - lymphatic filariasis frequently asked questions.
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2019;6(1).
doi:10.23937/2378-3516/1410102
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Lymphatic filariasis diagnosis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Parasites - Lymphatic filariasis treatment.
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