In:
Flugmedizin · Tropenmedizin · Reisemedizin - FTR, Georg Thieme Verlag KG, Vol. 30, No. 01 ( 2023-02), p. 15-19
Abstract:
An estimated 10–15 Mio. people in Central and West Africa are infected with the filarial species Loa loa. Although the associated disease burden seems comparable to other important tropical diseases such as schistosomiasis, loiasis remains an extremely neglected tropical disease. The disease may be categorized as microfilaremic or occult loiasis based on parasitological investigation. The diagnosis of microfilaremic loaisis can be established by microscopic detection of microfilariae. Occult loiasis is diagnosed based on the presence of typical symptoms in the setting of relevant exposure. Pathognomonic signs are the migration of the adult worm through the conjunctiva and the transient Calabar swelling. The treatment of loaisis still represents a major challenge particularly in endemic areas. Potential life-threatening side effects of the medication in addition to the risk of reinfection often lead to the fact that L. loa patients do not receive treatment in endemic areas.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1864-4538
,
1864-175X
Language:
German
Publisher:
Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Publication Date:
2023
