[Histopathological characteristics of the inguinal lymph nodes and skin in onchocerciasis]

The study of 46 inguinal lymph nodes and in 3 cases of skin of subjects affected with African onchocerciasis established the development of parasitic-toxic lymphadenitis and dermatitis. Lymphogenic sclerosis of lymph nodes is due to mechanical regional insufficiency of lymph circulation in them. Fibrous changes begin and progress in the medullary substance, and severe involvements lead to the development of a "fibrous lymph node". Such nodes become poor filters for lymph and blood as a reduction of the lymphatic and circulatory network occurs. Arteriolization of small vessels, the appearance of vessels of the locking type, hyalinosis of their walls and congestive phenomena are indications of regional hypertension.