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Published on: February 4, 2018
Extralymphatic disease due to bancroftian filariasis
G Dreyer1, P Dreyer, W F Piessens
1Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães (CPqAM), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz.
Summary
Bancroftian filariasis, caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, can lead to extralymphatic diseases beyond lymphatic damage. Recognizing these conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of filarial infections.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Parasitology
- Clinical pathology
Background:
- Filariasis, caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or B. timori, impacts lymphatic vessels.
- Extralymphatic pathology is increasingly recognized in bancroftian filariasis, particularly renal damage in asymptomatic carriers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and significance of extralymphatic manifestations in bancroftian filariasis.
- To increase awareness among clinicians and students for improved diagnosis and treatment.
- To emphasize the need for further research into extralymphatic filarial disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical syndromes associated with extralymphatic filarial disease.
- Discussion of potential pathomechanisms underlying extralymphatic manifestations.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography allows detection of adult worms, focusing attention on lymphatic pathology.
- Renal damage in asymptomatic microfilaremic carriers underscores extralymphatic involvement.
Conclusions:
- Extralymphatic pathology is a significant, often overlooked, aspect of bancroftian filariasis.
- Early recognition and management of extralymphatic disease are essential.
- Further research is required to fully understand and address extralymphatic filariasis.
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