Filariasis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Filariasis is a contagious infection caused by filarial worms. This disease can be transmitted through intermediaries of various types of mosquitoes. When infected, the sufferer will experience swelling in the lower legs. This makes filariasis also known as elephantiasis disease.
This disease is chronic and if not handled properly can cause disability. The defects that occur are permanent, where the legs, arms, breasts, and genitals will enlarge.
Filariasis is not a hereditary disease (genetically). The opinion of some people that this disease is a curse disease also cannot be justified.
Symptoms
At first, filariasis does not cause symptoms. But along with the development of the disease, there are several symptoms that are common in sufferers, including:
- Repeated fever
- Swollen lymph nodes (groin and armpit areas)
- Swelling of the legs, arms, breasts, and genitals
- The genitals look red and feel hot
- Muscle ache
- Headache
- Nauseous
- Sensitive to light
Reason
Filariasis is caused by filarial parasites. This parasite usually enters the human body through the bite of an infected mosquito. Three types of filarial parasites, namely Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori.
When you are bitten by a mosquito that has been infected with filarial parasites, the worm larvae will move to the lymphatic ducts and lymph nodes. Then the larvae will develop into adult worms and can live for years in your body.
Diagnosis
Determining the diagnosis of filariasis or elephantiasis disease can be done through a series of interviews and physical examinations. In addition, additional examinations are also needed which include:
- Blood test
- Tes urine
The two supporting examinations above are necessary to ensure the presence of filarial worms in the sufferer’s body. Usually, blood tests are carried out at night, when the filarial worm parasites are active.
Treatment
The main goal of filariasis treatment is to kill the parasite that develops in the sufferer’s body. For this reason, the doctor will give anti-filaria drugs, such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC). Antifilaria drugs can cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and fever.
Cleaning swollen parts and wounds also needs to be done regularly. And for cases of filariasis that are quite severe, in addition to administering anti-filaria drugs, further action is usually needed, such as surgery.