obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis

Wuchereria Bancrofti Filariasis: An Obsolete Term

Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis is an outdated term that was previously used to describe a parasitic disease caused by the nematode parasite Wuchereria bancrofti. This disease primarily affects the lymphatic system and can lead to life-long disabilities.

• Causes: The disease is caused by the infection with Wuchereria bancrofti, one of the three species of parasitic filarial nematodes that infect humans (Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori) [3].
• Transmission: The parasite is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which act as vectors for the disease [13].
• Symptoms: The disease can manifest in various ways, including acute adenolymphangitis, filarial fever, and tropical pulmonary eosinophilia [11].

The term "Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis" is now considered obsolete, and the disease is more commonly referred to as lymphatic filariasis (LF) or Bancroftian filariasis. This change in terminology reflects a shift towards using more accurate and descriptive names for diseases.

References:

[3] - Wuchereria bancrofti infectious disease; obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti filari

Common Signs and Symptoms of Obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti Filariasis

Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis, a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm parasite, can manifest in various ways. While it is considered obsolete due to widespread eradication efforts, understanding its historical signs and symptoms remains crucial for medical professionals.

Acute Manifestations

• Fever: A common symptom of acute Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis, often accompanied by other systemic symptoms such as headache or fatigue [3][10].
• Lymphangitis: Inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, which can cause pain and swelling in the affected area [9][13].
• Epididymo-orchitis: Inflammation of the epididymis and testes, often accompanied by fever and pain [9].

Chronic Manifestations

• Elephantiasis: A condition characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues, often resulting in grossly disfigured limbs [4][8].
• Hydrocele: Accumulation of fluid in the scrotum, which can cause swelling and discomfort [4].
• Lymphedema: Swelling of the lymphatic vessels, leading to chronic pain and disability [4].

Other Symptoms

• Funiculitis: Inflammation of the spermatic cord, often accompanied by fever and pain [12].
• Microfilaremia: Presence of microfilariae in the blood, which can cause hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals [15].

It is essential to note that these symptoms are primarily caused by adult worms and may not be present in all cases. The disease can also lead to permanent disability if left untreated.

References:

[1] Bhalla D (2013) - Cited by 28 [2] Mar 4, 2024 - [3] Ramzy RMR (2019) - Cited by 16 [4] ESA HANDBOOK - Cited by 70 [5] Fang Y (2019) - Cited by 33 [6] Akhtar S - Cited by 3 [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15]

Diagnostic Tests for Obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti Filariasis

Wuchereria bancrofti is a parasitic nematode that causes lymphatic filariasis, a disease characterized by the obstruction and damage to the lymphatic system. The diagnosis of this disease has evolved over time with the development of various diagnostic tests.

Traditional Diagnostic Tests:

• Blood smears: This traditional method involves examining blood samples under a microscope for the presence of microfilariae, which are the larvae of Wuchereria bancrofti.
• Serologic tests: These tests detect antibodies against Wuchereria bancrofti in the blood. They can be used to confirm the diagnosis of lymphatic filariasis.

Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs):

• Immunochromatography Test Card (ICT): This is a point-of-care rapid card test that detects circulating filarial antigen (CFA) from adult Wuchereria bancrofti worms. It has been shown to be 76% sensitive at detecting microfilaremia and 93% specific [5].
• Alere Filariasis Test Strip (FTS): This is a rapid diagnostic test recommended for mapping, monitoring, and transmission assessment surveys (TAS) for the qualitative detection of Wuchereria bancrofti antigen in human blood samples.

Other Diagnostic Tests:

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): This molecular biology technique can be used to detect the DNA of Wuchereria bancrofti.
• ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): This test detects antibodies against Wuchereria bancrofti in the blood.

Limitations and Considerations:

• The ICT test is not licensed for use in the United States and cannot be used for patient diagnosis [10].
• The Alere Filariasis Test Strip (FTS) has not been established to determine its accuracy in effectively monitoring treatment of bancroftian infection [12].

Conclusion:

The diagnostic tests for Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis have evolved over time with the development of various methods. While traditional methods such as blood smears and serologic tests are still used, rapid diagnostic tests like ICT and FTS offer a more convenient and accurate way to diagnose this disease.

References:

[1] Bancroftian filariasis is one of the most common etiology of acquired lymphedema [13]. [2] The Alere Filariasis Test Strip (FTS) is recommended for mapping, monitoring, and transmission assessment surveys (TAS) [14]. [3] Blood smears and serologic tests are typically used for diagnosis [15].

Treatment Options for Obsolete Wuchereria Bancrofti Filariasis

According to the search results, there are several treatment options available for Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis. However, it's essential to note that these treatments may not be effective against all stages of the disease.

• Diethylcarbamazine (DEC): DEC is a medication that has been used to treat Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis. The recommended dosage for DEC is 6 mg/kg for 12 days [3]. However, it's worth noting that DEC may not be effective against all stages of the disease and can have limited macrofilaricidal activity [8].
• Doxycycline: Doxycycline is an antibiotic that has been used in combination with DEC to treat Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis. The recommended dosage for doxycycline is 200 mg/d for a 6-week course [3].
• Ivermectin: Ivermectin is a medication that has been shown to be effective against the microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti but has no effect on the adult parasite [8]. However, it's worth noting that ivermectin may not be effective against all stages of the disease.
• Triple-drug regimen: A triple-drug regimen consisting of DEC, doxycycline, and albendazole has been used to treat Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis. This regimen has shown promise in reducing microfilariae levels [10].

It's essential to note that the treatment options for Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis may vary depending on the stage of the disease, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [3] - Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) is no longer approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to its limited macrofilaricidal activity. [8] - Ivermectin has limited macrofilaricidal activity against Wuchereria bancrofti. [10] - A triple-drug regimen consisting of DEC, doxycycline, and albendazole has been used to treat Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis.

Differential Diagnoses for Obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti Filariasis

Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis, a vector-borne neglected tropical disease, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity with other parasitic infections. Here are some differential diagnoses that should be considered:

• Onchocerciasis: Also known as river blindness, this disease is caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus and can present with similar symptoms such as skin lesions, eye problems, and lymphadenopathy.
• Brugia malayi and Brugia timori filariasis: These two species of parasites are also responsible for causing lymphatic filariasis and can be difficult to distinguish from Wuchereria bancrofti based on clinical presentation alone.
• L. loa filariasis (Loiasis): This disease is caused by the parasite Loa loa and can present with similar symptoms such as subcutaneous nodules, eye problems, and lymphadenopathy.

Key Diagnostic Features

To differentiate Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis from these other conditions, several key diagnostic features should be considered:

• Size and morphology of the parasites: Wuchereria bancrofti is typically larger than Brugia malayi and Brugia timori, with a more prominent cuticle.
• Presence of small filarial worms in lymph nodes: The presence of small filarial worms in lymph nodes is pathognomonic for either Wuchereria or Brugia species.
• Clinical manifestations: Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis typically presents with lymphedema, while Onchocerciasis and Loiasis can present with skin lesions and eye problems.

Diagnostic Tools

Several diagnostic tools are available to aid in the diagnosis of Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis, including:

• Cytology: Cytological examination of tissue samples can help identify the presence of parasites.
• Histopathology: Histopathological examination of tissue samples can provide more detailed information about the morphology of the parasites.
• Molecular diagnosis: Molecular diagnostic techniques such as PCR can be used to detect the presence of Wuchereria bancrofti DNA.

Conclusion

Differential diagnoses for obsolete Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis should include Onchocerciasis, Brugia malayi and Brugia timori filariasis, and Loiasis. Key diagnostic features such as size and morphology of the parasites, presence of small filarial worms in lymph nodes, and clinical manifestations can aid in differentiating Wuchereria bancrofti filariasis from these other conditions. Diagnostic tools such as cytology, histopathology, and molecular diagnosis can also be used to aid in diagnosis.

References:

• [12] (iii) Differential diagnoses.
• [13] Histopathology.
• [14] Filarial nematodes cause a variety of clinical manifestations in the human host, from asymptomatic infection to lymphedema (W. bancrofti and Brugia spp.), subcutaneous nodules or swellings (L. loa and O. volvulus), and ocular involvement (L. loa and O. volvulus).