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[Microfilaruria and ocular onchocerciasis (author's transl)]
Tropenmedizin Und Parasitologie
|September 1, 1981
Summary
Microfilaruria, a marker of onchocerciasis, is linked to irreversible eye lesions in young men. High microfilariae loads in the eye
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Onchocerciasis, a parasitic disease, can cause severe eye lesions.
- Microfilaruria, the presence of microfilariae in urine, indicates systemic infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between microfilaruria and ocular onchocerciasis.
- To identify risk factors for irreversible eye lesions in endemic areas.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in 5 villages in North Benin.
- 619 individuals were examined for microfilaruria and ocular lesions.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between microfilaruria and irreversible eye lesions in men aged 15-34 years.
- Older men with microfilaruria showed a higher prevalence of numerous microfilariae in the anterior eye segment.
Conclusions:
- Microfilaruria is a potential indicator of ocular onchocerciasis risk, particularly in younger men.
- Age and microfilariae load are associated with the severity of eye involvement in onchocerciasis.