Question

Elephantiasis is caused by

• A. Wuchereria
• B. Pinworm
• C. Planarians
• D. Liver flukes

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Wuchereria

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Elephantiasis or lymphatic filariasis is mostly caused by Wuchereria bancrofti and is transmitted by mosquitos.
2. It is characterized by hard and thick skin and affects the limbs, genitals, and breasts which become swollen and enlarged.
3. The mosquito ingests the parasite's larvae when it bites an infected person.
4. When the mosquito bites another person, the larvae are released into the bloodstream and later migrate to the lymphatic system.
5. As the parasite attacks the lymphatic system, infected people have a weak immune system and are susceptible to bacterial infections of the skin.
6. Antiparasitic drugs and vector control are two ways to eliminate the parasite and prevent the spread of the infection.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B

Pinworms are thin parasitic worms that are responsible for the most common intestinal infection around the world.

Option C:

Planarians are non-parasitic worms that have the unique ability to regenerate and are used as a model in biomedical research.

Option D:

Liver flukes are parasites that infect the liver and bile duct. Consumption of raw and contaminated food is the main cause of infection.

Final answer: Elephantiasis is caused by Wuchereria.