Lymphatic filariasis history and symptoms

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kalsang Dolma, M.B.B.S.[2]

Most infected people are asymptomatic and will never develop clinical symptoms, despite the fact that the parasite damages the lymph system. A small percentage of persons will develop lymphedema. Filarial infection can also cause pulmonary tropical eosinophilia syndrome. Most people develop these clinical manifestations years after being infected.

• Although the parasite damages the lymph system, most infected people have no symptoms and will never develop clinical symptoms. These people do not know they have lymphatic filariasis unless tested.
• Elephantiasis (frequently in the lower extremities)
• Scrotal swelling and scrotal elephantiasis (patients with Wuchereria bancrofti)
• Fever
• Filarial infection can also cause pulmonary tropical eosinophilia syndrome, although this syndrome is typically found in persons living with the disease in Asia. Symptoms of pulmonary tropical eosinophilia syndrome include
  • Nocturnal cough
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath

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