
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions β 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.
Onchocerciasis historical perspective
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Dr. Rodolfo Robles Valverde’s study on patients with river blindness in Guatemala led to the discovery that the disease is caused by filaria of O. volvulus, and sheds light on the life cycle and transmission of the parasite.
Historical Perspective
Historical Perspective
In 1915, Dr. Rodolfo Robles Valverde’s study on patients with river blindness in Guatemala led to the discovery that the disease is caused by filaria of O. volvulus, and sheds light on the life cycle and transmission of the parasite.[1] Using case studies of coffee plantation workers in Guatemala, Robles hypothesized the vector of the disease is a day-biting insect, and more specifically, two anthropophilic species of Simulium flies found to be endemic to the areas. He published his findings on a new disease from Guatemala associated with subcutaneous nodules, anterior ocular (eye) lesions, dermatitis, and microfilariae in 1917.[2]
References
References
- β Marty AM, Duke BOL, Neafie RC. Onchocerciasis in Meyers, W., Neafie, RC; Marty AM; Wear DJ. Pathology of Infectious Diseases, Volume 1 Helminths, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, ISBN 1-88101041-65-4, 2000 p. 287 – 306 (17)
- β ROBLES R. Enfermedad nueva en Guatemala. La Juventud MΓ©dica 1917; 17: 97-115.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Kalsang Dolma, M.B.B.S.[2]
