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Skin changes in chronic lymphatic filariasis
H Burri1, L Loutan, V Kumaraswami
1Medical Clinic 1, University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland.
Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Chronic lymphatic filariasis causes skin changes in lower limb lymphoedema. Early treatment of secondary infections is crucial to prevent disease progression and elephantiasis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Dermatology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Lymphoedema is a common manifestation of chronic lymphatic filariasis.
- Skin changes associated with lymphoedema can impact patient quality of life and disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document and analyze skin changes in patients with lower limb lymphoedema due to lymphatic filariasis.
- To compare the observed skin lesions across different grades of lymphoedema.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination of 17 men and 31 women with unilateral lower limb lymphoedema.
- Observation and documentation of various skin manifestations.
- Comparison of lesions based on lymphoedema severity.
Main Results:
- Observed skin changes included skin fold thickening, hyperkeratosis, altered hair growth, pachydermia, pigmentary changes, ulceration, nodules, and intertrigo.
- These lesions are not exclusive to lymphatic filariasis and can occur in other lymphostatic conditions.
- Secondary infections appear to exacerbate these skin changes.
Conclusions:
- Skin lesions in lymphatic filariasis are diverse and may mimic other conditions.
- Prompt management of secondary infections is vital to prevent the advancement of lymphoedema to elephantiasis.