Elephantiasis

Elephantiasis is an infection caused by various types of parasitic worms resulting in a severe swelling and hardening of the skin and tissues of the arms, legs, and male genitalia. It is also known as filariasis. The most common causative agents of elephantiasis are species of roundworms, mainly Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. Elephantiasis is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The resulting infection causes the lymphatic vessels to become blocked, leading to a build up of lymphatic fluid and the distinctive swelling of the limbs. Treatment for elephantiasis involves the use of medications to kill the parasitic worms and antibiotics to treat any secondary bacterial infections. Prevention is mainly achieved through vector control, such as eliminating mosquito-breeding sites, and practices such as the use of protective clothing when outdoors. Elephantiasis is still prevalent in many tropical and subtropical countries and remains a major health issue in those regions.