Essay On Elephantiasis

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general survive for almost 7 or more years (Gbakima, et al 387-390).
Symptoms of elephantiasis are enlargement and swelling of a part of the body due to the blockage of the lymphatic nodes. The lymphatic system is not able to take out the extra fluid of the body which causes an accumulation of body fluid. The arms and legs are the most affected areas in the body. It can swell to more than three times of its normal shape. Affected areas will have malformed shapes; skin and tissue will become thick and appear to look like an elephant’s leg. The skin of the affected areas becomes extremely dry, thickened (hyperkeratosis), and discolored. Other symptoms may include Fever, chills, and a feeling of sickness. Elephantiasis may affect the male and female external genital area. Some male suffer from enlargement of the scrotum, in some cases scrotum can become abnormally enlarged and can weigh over 100 lb. The penis may be hidden under the skin. In some women the external area of the genitalia will appear thickened and ulcerated rough skin may develop. The breasts may become enlarged. Infected individuals are susceptible to bacterial and fungal due to the damage of the lymphatic system. Infections may become worsen due to the lack of immunity caused by a damaged lymphatic system. People affected by this disease may experience severe pain and a burning …show more content…

Several tests may be performed on patients to determine the cause of lymphatic damage and elephantiasis. A definitive diagnosis of lymphatic filariasis is done through the identification of the microfilariae in blood. Samples of blood are taken at night. Other test used for diagnosis is immunodiagnostic test; it can identify the cause of the symptoms based on the detection of antigens of Wuchereria bancrofti. This test is highly specific and sensitive, blood samples do not have to be taken at night (Seppa

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