Question

Elephantiasis or filariasis is caused by Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia malayi. The major symptoms are:

• A. Chronic inflammation of lymphatic vessels of lower limbs
• B. Deformities of genital organs
• C. Swelling of scrotum
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

Elephantiasis refers to a parasitic infection that causes extreme swelling in the arms and legs. The disease is caused by the filarial worm, Wuchereria bancrofti which is transmitted from human to human via the female mosquito when it takes a blood meal. Elephantiasis is typically characterised by a thickening of the skin and subcutaneous tissue that gives rise to the grossly enlarged and swollen limbs that earn the condition its name. The condition is also called lymphatic filariasis. There is damage to the lymphatic system that leaves affected individuals susceptible to secondary bacterial and fungal infections that can greatly worsen the condition. Elephantiasis may also affect the male and female external genital organs. In a male, there may be enlargement of the scrotum, and the penis may be retracted under the skin which has become thickened and painful.