Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Calabar swellings
Introduction
Calabar swellings are localized infections where the parasite -adult worm- is secreting toxins. It is an immune reaction caused when the worms that reside in the subcutaneous tissue are injured by a minor or major force to the skin. The insides of the worm are then exposed to the immune system, and a powerful reaction ensues. Normally, the immune system does not detect the helminth until it is injured.