Did you mean: filarial elephantiasis
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Lymphatic Research and Biology Apr 2019The acronym Limprint stands for Lymphedema IMpact and PRevalence INTernational and was run under the auspices of the International Lymphedema Framework (ILF), a charity... (Review)
Review
The acronym Limprint stands for Lymphedema IMpact and PRevalence INTernational and was run under the auspices of the International Lymphedema Framework (ILF), a charity dedicated to improving provision of care globally. The primary aim was to identify the number of people with chronic edema (chronic edema present for >3 months and due to a range of underlying etiologies and associated risk factors) within diverse health services in nine participating countries and to determine its impact using validated methods. An international protocol and sampling framework, online data capture system, and standard operating procedures were adopted. An international consensus was used to create a core data tool that covered 13 domains. Specialist data on demographics and disability, details of swelling, wounds, cancer, and health-related quality of life were also available for sites. The study protocol was designed to allow flexibility in the types of studies undertaken within complex health care systems. All cases were confirmed using the modified pitting test. Sensitivity and specificity for this method were determined in Japanese and European populations. Following confirmation of a chronic edema case, Lymphologists defined whether it was a primary of a secondary form. The study was designed to provide robust evidence that chronic edema is an important and unrecognized public health problem in health services with significant morbidity. Without evidence of the size and complexity, it will remain considered a rare phenomenon and people affected will be denied access to appropriate treatment that would allow them to have fulfilled and productive lives.
Topics: Americas; Asia; Australia; Breast Cancer Lymphedema; Chronic Disease; Diagnosis, Differential; Edema; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Europe; Global Health; Humans; International Cooperation; Lymphatic System; Non-Filarial Lymphedema; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Prevalence; Public Health; Quality of Life
PubMed: 30995185
DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2018.0081 -
Parasitology Research Dec 2021Filariae are vector-borne parasitic nematodes that are endemic worldwide, in tropical and subtropical regions. Important human filariae spp. include Onchocerca volvulus,... (Review)
Review
Filariae are vector-borne parasitic nematodes that are endemic worldwide, in tropical and subtropical regions. Important human filariae spp. include Onchocerca volvulus, Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia spp., and Loa loa and Mansonella spp. causing onchocerciasis (river blindness), lymphatic filariasis (lymphedema and hydrocele), loiasis (eye worm), and mansonelliasis, respectively. It is estimated that over 1 billion individuals live in endemic regions where filarial diseases are a public health concern contributing to significant disability adjusted life years (DALYs). Thus, efforts to control and eliminate filarial diseases were already launched by the WHO in the 1970s, especially against lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis, and are mainly based on mass drug administration (MDA) of microfilaricidal drugs (ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, albendazole) to filarial endemic areas accompanied with vector control strategies with the goal to reduce the transmission. With the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it was decided to eliminate transmission of onchocerciasis and stop lymphatic filariasis as a public health problem by 2030. It was also requested that novel drugs and treatment strategies be developed. Mouse models provide an important platform for anti-filarial drug research in a preclinical setting. This review presents an overview about the Litomosoides sigmodontis and Acanthocheilonema viteae filarial mouse models and their role in immunological research as well as preclinical studies about novel anti-filarial drugs and treatment strategies.
Topics: Acanthocheilonema; Animals; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Filarioidea; Humans; Loiasis; Male; Mice; Models, Animal
PubMed: 33547508
DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-07026-2 -
Infection, Genetics and Evolution :... Dec 2014Wuchereria bancrofti (Wb) is the most widely distributed of the three nematodes known to cause lymphatic filariasis (LF), the other two being Brugia malayi and Brugia... (Review)
Review
Wuchereria bancrofti (Wb) is the most widely distributed of the three nematodes known to cause lymphatic filariasis (LF), the other two being Brugia malayi and Brugia timori. Current tools available to monitor LF are limited to diagnostic tests targeting DNA repeats, filarial antigens, and anti-filarial antibodies. While these tools are useful for detection and surveillance, elimination programs have yet to take full advantage of molecular typing for inferring infection history, strain fingerprinting, and evolution. To date, molecular typing approaches have included whole mitochondrial genomes, genotyping, targeted sequencing, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPDs). These studies have revealed much about Wb biology. For example, in one study in Papua New Guinea researchers identified 5 major strains that were widespread and many minor strains some of which exhibit geographic stratification. Genome data, while rare, has been utilized to reconstruct evolutionary relationships among taxa of the Onchocercidae (the clade of filarial nematodes) and identify gene synteny. Their phylogeny reveals that speciation from the common ancestor of both B. malayi and Wb occurred around 5-6 millions years ago with shared ancestry to other filarial nematodes as recent as 15 million years ago. These discoveries hold promise for gene discovery and identifying drug targets in species that are more amenable to in vivo experiments. Continued technological developments in whole genome sequencing and data analysis will likely replace many other forms of molecular typing, multiplying the amount of data available on population structure, genetic diversity, and phylogenetics. Once widely available, the addition of population genetic data from genomic studies should hasten the elimination of LF parasites like Wb. Infectious disease control programs have benefited greatly from population genetics data and recently from population genomics data. However, while there is currently a surplus of data for diseases like malaria and HIV, there is a scarcity of this data for filarial nematodes. With the falling cost of genome sequencing, research on filarial nematodes could benefit from the addition of population genetics statistics and phylogenetics especially in dealing with elimination programs. A comprehensive review focusing on population genetics of filarial nematode does not yet exist. Here our goal is to provide a current overview of the molecular epidemiology of W. bancrofti (Wb) the primary causative agent of LF. We begin by reviewing studies utilizing molecular typing techniques with specific focus on genomic and population datasets. Next, we used whole mitochondrial genome data to construct a phylogeny and examine the evolutionary history of the Onchocercidae. Then, we provide a perspective to aid in understanding how population genetic techniques translate to modern epidemiology. Finally, we introduce the concept of genomic epidemiology and provide some examples that will aid in future studies of Wb.
Topics: Animals; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Evolution, Molecular; Genetic Variation; Humans; Molecular Epidemiology; Molecular Typing; Phylogeny; Prevalence; Wuchereria bancrofti
PubMed: 25176600
DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.08.018 -
Seminars in Immunopathology Nov 2012Although two thirds of the 120 million people infected with lymph-dwelling filarial parasites have subclinical infections, ~40 million have lymphedema and/or other... (Review)
Review
Although two thirds of the 120 million people infected with lymph-dwelling filarial parasites have subclinical infections, ~40 million have lymphedema and/or other pathologic manifestations including hydroceles (and other forms of urogenital disease), episodic adenolymphangitis, tropical pulmonary eosinophilia, lymphedema, and (in its most severe form) elephantiasis. Adult filarial worms reside in the lymphatics and lymph nodes and induce changes that result in dilatation of lymphatics and thickening of the lymphatic vessel walls. Progressive lymphatic damage and pathology results from the summation of the effect of tissue alterations induced by both living and nonliving adult parasites, the host inflammatory response to the parasites and their secreted antigens, the host inflammatory response to the endosymbiont Wolbachia, and those seen as a consequence of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. Inflammatory damage induced by filarial parasites appears to be multifactorial, with endogenous parasite products, Wolbachia, and host immunity all playing important roles. This review will initially examine the prototypical immune responses engendered by the parasite and delineate the regulatory mechanisms elicited to prevent immune-mediated pathology. This will be followed by a discussion of the proposed mechanisms underlying pathogenesis, with the central theme being that pathogenesis is a two-step process-the first initiated by the parasite and host innate immune system and the second propagated mainly by the host's adaptive immune system and by other factors (including secondary infections).
Topics: Adaptive Immunity; Animals; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Humans; Immunity, Innate; Lymphedema
PubMed: 23053393
DOI: 10.1007/s00281-012-0346-4 -
BMJ Case Reports Aug 2017Lymphatic filariasis is one of the most debilitating and disfiguring scourges among all diseases. This report presents a case of a woman with recurrent breast nodularity...
Lymphatic filariasis is one of the most debilitating and disfiguring scourges among all diseases. This report presents a case of a woman with recurrent breast nodularity after being previously operated for a suspected breast neoplasm. We would like to highlight the issue of similar clinical presentation of a filarial breast lump and other breast lesions leading to inappropriate therapy.
Topics: Adult; Breast Diseases; Diagnosis, Differential; Diethylcarbamazine; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Female; Filaricides; Humans; Mammography; Mastectomy, Segmental; Pain; Wolbachia
PubMed: 28835430
DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2017-221536 -
International Journal of Environmental... Dec 2021The Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) is a program that aims to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2030. The GPELF strategy is based on... (Review)
Review
The Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) is a program that aims to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2030. The GPELF strategy is based on interrupting transmission using mass drug administration (MDA) and, in parallel, managing morbidity cases. However, it has been seen that there is a shortage of research in the literature and public policies regarding this last pillar. In this study, we reviewed the literature and available information regarding the burden of filarial morbidity. In addition, we identified that in the Americas, the implementation of structured services with regard to morbidity assistance in the Americas was scarce. We formed a review that aimed to assess the pathogenesis, epidemiology, repercussions, and treatment of filarial morbidity in countries in the Americas where lymphatic filariasis is endemic. Structured searches were carried out on PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, and Web of Science databases without time and language restrictions. Three reviewers evaluated the 2150 studies and performed data extraction, and quality assessment by assigning scores to the studies found. The current literature and available information on the burden of filarial morbidity, as well as the implementation of structured services with regard to morbidity assistance in the Americas, were all found to be scarce. Now that this knowledge gap has been identified, both health services and researchers need to seek the implementation and enhancement of the maintenance of GPELF strategies that relate to the morbidity pillar.
Topics: Elephantiasis, Filarial; Humans; Morbidity
PubMed: 35010576
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010316 -
Tropical Medicine & International... Aug 2022To determine the burden and management of filarial lymphoedema and its associated factors in Lindi district, Tanzania.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the burden and management of filarial lymphoedema and its associated factors in Lindi district, Tanzania.
METHODS
Cross-sectional study involving 954 community members who were screened for filarial lymphoedema by using a checklist. Moreover, lymphoedema patients were examined for the presence of entry lesions, staging of disease, and interviewed on acute dermatolymphangioadenitis (ADLA) attacks, and their current practices on lymphoedema management. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS
The prevalence of filarial lymphoedema was 7.8%, with the majority in the early stage of lymphoedema (78.4%). The large majority (98.6%) of the patients had lower limb lymphoedema and 46% of lymphoedema patients had entry lesions. More than a half (60.8%) of those lymphoedema patients had experienced ADLA attacks; close to two-thirds (64.8%) had one or two attacks in the past 6 months. Generally, patients had inappropriate hygiene care practices for filarial lymphoedema management. Inappropriate hygiene care practice for lymphoedema management was associated with an increased risk for the development of advance stage of lymphoedema (adjusted odds ratio = 7.379, 95%, confidence interval: 3.535-16.018, p = 0.04).
CONCLUSION
Though lymphatic filariasis transmission has drastically declined, chronic manifestations of lymphoedema persist in Lindi district. The recommended disease management practices are deficient, which calls for a programmatic approach for mapping the burden of lymphoedema and implementing its management.
Topics: Cross-Sectional Studies; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Humans; Lymphedema; Prevalence; Tanzania
PubMed: 35700223
DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13792 -
Memorias Do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz 1987
Comparative Study
Topics: Animals; Brazil; Circadian Rhythm; Disease Vectors; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Filariasis; Histamine H1 Antagonists; Humans; Microfilariae; National Health Programs; Wuchereria bancrofti
PubMed: 2908187
DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02761987000800070 -
PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases Sep 2017
Topics: Elephantiasis, Filarial; Global Health; Health Services Accessibility; Humans; Mass Drug Administration; Neglected Diseases; Trachoma; Tropical Medicine
PubMed: 28957317
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005563 -
The Indian Journal of Medical Research Jun 2019Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are human filarial diseases belonging to the group of neglected tropical diseases, leading to permanent and long-term... (Review)
Review
Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are human filarial diseases belonging to the group of neglected tropical diseases, leading to permanent and long-term disability in infected individuals in the endemic countries such as Africa and India. Microfilaricidal drugs such as ivermectin and albendazole have been used as the standard therapy in filariasis, although their efficacy in eliminating the diseases is not fully established. Anti-Wolbachia therapy employs antibiotics and is a promising approach showing potent macrofilaricidal activity and also prevents embryogenesis. This has translated to clinical benefits resulting in successful eradication of microfilarial burden, thus averting the risk of adverse events from target species as well as those due to co-infection with loiasis. Doxycycline shows potential as an anti-Wolbachia treatment, leading to the death of adult parasitic worms. It is readily available, cheap and safe to use in adult non-pregnant patients. Besides doxycycline, several other potential antibiotics are also being investigated for the treatment of LF and onchocerciasis. This review aims to discuss and summarise recent developments in the use of anti-Wolbachia drugs to treat onchocerciasis and LF.
Topics: Adult; Albendazole; Animals; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Doxycycline; Drug Therapy, Combination; Elephantiasis, Filarial; Humans; India; Neglected Diseases; Onchocerciasis; Tropical Medicine; Wolbachia
PubMed: 31496523
DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_454_17