Loiasis

Filariasis is a disease caused by roundworms. It is spread by mosquitoes. A mosquito bites the skin of an infected person and becomes infected. Next, the mosquito bites some other person. It passes the young roundworms into the bloodstream. They grow and develop in the blood. The worms spread to the lymph system, which is a system in the body that has vessels and nodes that carry lymph fluid to the blood. This can cause serious problems. Filariasis needs care right away. Serious infection may lead to permanent and long-term disability. Treatment includes drug therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgery in case of heavy infestation.

Name

Filariasis Discharge Instructions

About this topic

What drugs may be needed?

Fight an infection,Kill the roundworms,Stop the infection from spreading,Help with pain

What problems could happen?

Swelling of the scrotum,Enlargement and thickening of the skin,Infections of the skin,Build-up of fluids and swelling in the arms and legs,Swelling of the lymph nodes,Blindness,Cough and breathing trouble,Problems with your kidneys

When do I need to call the doctor?

Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills.,Very bad swelling,Problems with eyesight,Signs of skin infection including red, swollen, hot, and tender skin

Body systems

Emergency Medicine,Infectious Disease

What are other common names?

Brugia malayi,Brugia timori,Wuchereria bancrofti,Bancroftian Filariasis,Elephantiasis,Filarial Elephantiasis,Filarial Fever,Filariasis Malayi,Lymphatic Filariasis,Malayi Tropical Eosinophilia,Philariasis,Serous Cavity Filariasis,Subcutaneous Filariasis,Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia,Wuchereriasis

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.