
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.
Lymphatic filariasis history and symptoms
Introduction
Overview
Overview
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.
History and Symptoms
History and Symptoms
- 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
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kalsang Dolma, M.B.B.S.[2]
