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Microfilaremia and peak expiratory flow rate, Philippines
Tropical and Geographical Medicine
|March 1, 1984
Summary
Microfilaremia, a parasitic infection, is linked to reduced lung function. This study found steeper declines in peak expiratory flow with age in areas with higher microfilaria prevalence, indicating airflow obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Filariasis is a significant public health concern in tropical regions.
- Microfilaremia, the presence of microfilariae in the blood, is a key indicator of filarial infection.
- Previous research suggests potential systemic effects of filarial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between microfilaremia prevalence and lung function.
- To assess the impact of microfilaremia on peak expiratory flow (PEF) rates in relation to age.
- To compare lung function between individuals with and without parasitemia in endemic areas.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving residents of two Philippine villages with varying microfilaremia prevalence.
- Measurement of peak expiratory flow (PEF) rates.
- Microfilaremia assessment through nighttime peripheral blood thick smear microscopy (40 cmm).
Main Results:
- A steeper decline in PEF with increasing age was observed in the village with high microfilaremia prevalence.
- Individuals with microfilaremia in the high prevalence village exhibited a steeper PEF decline compared to uninfected individuals.
- The findings suggest a correlation between the presence of microfilariae and impaired airflow.
Conclusions:
- Microfilaremia is associated with airflow obstruction.
- The study highlights a potential link between parasitic infections and respiratory health.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of airflow obstruction in microfilaremia.