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What is Bancrofti Disease?

Published in Parasitic Disease 3 mins read

Bancrofti disease, also known as Bancroftian filariasis, is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode worm Wuchereria bancrofti. It is a significant cause of disability worldwide and is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.

Understanding Bancroftian Filariasis

Here's a breakdown of key aspects of Bancrofti disease:

  • Cause: The disease is caused by the parasitic worm Wuchereria bancrofti. These worms are thread-like nematodes.
  • Transmission: Mosquitoes act as vectors, transmitting the Wuchereria bancrofti larvae from infected individuals to healthy ones during blood meals.
  • Mechanism: When an infected mosquito bites a person, the larvae enter the bloodstream and migrate to the lymphatic system, where they mature into adult worms.
  • Impact: The adult worms reside in the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, where they can live for several years, reproducing and releasing microfilariae (immature larvae) into the bloodstream. The microfilariae can then be ingested by mosquitoes, continuing the cycle.
  • Symptoms: Many people infected with Wuchereria bancrofti remain asymptomatic for years. When symptoms do appear, they can include:
    • Lymphedema: Swelling of the limbs (especially legs and arms), genitals (hydrocele), or breasts. This is caused by the worms obstructing lymphatic flow.
    • Elephantiasis: Severe lymphedema leading to thickening and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues.
    • Acute adenolymphangitis (ADL) attacks: Episodes of fever, chills, and painful swelling of lymph nodes and vessels.
    • Tropical pulmonary eosinophilia (TPE): A less common manifestation involving lung symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
  • Diagnosis: Diagnosis typically involves detecting microfilariae in blood samples taken at night, when they are most abundant. Other diagnostic methods include antigen detection tests and ultrasound to visualize adult worms in the lymphatic system.
  • Treatment: The primary treatment for Bancrofti disease is with medications like diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and ivermectin, often in combination with albendazole. These drugs kill the microfilariae and can also kill or sterilize the adult worms. Mass drug administration (MDA) programs are used in endemic areas to reduce the transmission of the disease.
  • Prevention: Prevention strategies include:
    • Mosquito control: Reducing mosquito populations through insecticide spraying, bed nets, and eliminating breeding sites.
    • Mass drug administration (MDA): Distributing medication to entire populations in endemic areas to kill the microfilariae and prevent transmission.
    • Personal protection measures: Using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito biting hours.

In summary, Bancrofti disease is a debilitating parasitic infection caused by the Wuchereria bancrofti worm, transmitted by mosquitoes, and primarily affecting the lymphatic system. Early diagnosis and treatment, along with effective mosquito control measures, are crucial for preventing the disease and its long-term complications.