Endemic elephantiasis as a paediatric problem in the tropics

Endemic (non-filarial) elephantiasis of the lower legs is a disease of worldwide distribution in which the first signs commonly occur in childhood, at a time when the disease can be arrested and even reversed. Failure to recognize this stage exposes the patient and his family to increasing disability. The distribution, pathology and clinical appearance are summarized with illustrative cases. The management of these cases is outlined. Public health education, especially that of parents, plays a major part in control of the disease.