[Filariasis in patients returned from the tropics. Studies on 64 cases]

A discussion is presented on the epidemiological and clinical aspects of filariasis in persons returning from tropical countries. In our population filariasis is mainly imported from central and western Africa, especially Cameroon. Missionaries and voluntary workers spending periods of years in the tropics are particularly exposed. About 50% of the patients are normal on clinical examination and 40% do not even evidence symptoms due to the low parasite density. Therefore, demonstration of the parasite, which is the diagnostic aim, is often very difficult and requires special techniques. Whenever parasite demonstration is impossible, itching, eosinophilia and a positive immunofluorescence reaction are important diagnostic signs, but they may occasionally develop years after the subject's return. Treatment is by diethylcarbamazine and suramine; their administration and side effects are described and 2 cases involving severe reactions due to inadequate treatment are cited.