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Medeiros ZM, Vieira AVB, Xavier AT, Bezerra GSN, Lopes MDFC, Bonfim CV, Aguiar-Santos AM. Lymphatic Filariasis: A Systematic Review on Morbidity and Its Repercussions in Countries in the Americas. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:316. [PMID: 35010576 PMCID: PMC8751179 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulma M. Medeiros
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Recife 50670-420, Brazil; (Z.M.M.); (A.T.X.); (A.M.A.-S.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife 50100-130, Brazil
| | - Amanda V. B. Vieira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Recife 50670-420, Brazil; (Z.M.M.); (A.T.X.); (A.M.A.-S.)
| | - Amanda T. Xavier
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Recife 50670-420, Brazil; (Z.M.M.); (A.T.X.); (A.M.A.-S.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife 50100-130, Brazil
| | - Gilberto S. N. Bezerra
- Materials Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, N37 HD68 Athlone, Ireland;
| | | | - Cristine V. Bonfim
- Ministério da Educação, Fundação Joaquim Nabuco, Diretoria de Pesquisas Sociais, Recife 52061-540, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Ana M. Aguiar-Santos
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Recife 50670-420, Brazil; (Z.M.M.); (A.T.X.); (A.M.A.-S.)
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Dietrich CF, Chaubal N, Hoerauf A, Kling K, Piontek MS, Steffgen L, Mand S, Dong Y. Review of Dancing Parasites in Lymphatic Filariasis. Ultrasound Int Open 2019; 5:E65-E74. [PMID: 31312785 PMCID: PMC6629997 DOI: 10.1055/a-0918-3678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis is an infection transmitted by blood-sucking mosquitoes with filarial nematodes of the species Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi und B. timori . It is prevalent in tropical countries throughout the world, with more than 60 million people infected and more than 1 billion living in areas with the risk of transmission. Worm larvae with a length of less than 1 mm are transmitted by mosquitoes, develop in human lymphatic tissue to adult worms with a length of 7-10 cm, live in the human body for up to 10 years and produce millions of microfilariae, which can be transmitted further by mosquitoes. The adult worms can be easily observed by ultrasonography because of their size and fast movements (the so-called "filarial dance sign"), which can be differentiated from other movements (e. g., blood in venous vessels) by their characteristic movement profile in pulsed-wave Doppler mode. Therapeutic options include (combinations of) ivermectin, albendazole, diethylcarbamazine and doxycycline. The latter depletes endosymbiotic Wolbachia bacteria from the worms and thus sterilizes and later kills the adult worms (macrofilaricidal or adulticidal effect).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nitin Chaubal
- Thane Ultrasound Centre, Thane Ultrasound Centre, Thane, India
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institut für Med. Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Parasitologie (IMMIP), Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kling
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Schindler Piontek
- Caritas Krankenhaus Bad Mergentheim, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Würzburg, Medical Clinic 2, Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Ludwig Steffgen
- Trainings-Zentrum Ultraschall-Diagnostik LS GmbH, Ultrasound, Mainleus, Germany
| | - Sabine Mand
- Institut für Med. Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Parasitologie (IMMIP), Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Yi Dong
- Zhongshan Hospital, Ultrasound, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
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, lymphedema, and (in its most severe form) elephantiasis. Adult filarial worms reside in the lymphatics and lymph nodes and induce lymphatic dilatation. Progressive lymphatic damage and pathology results primarily from the host inflammatory response to the parasites but also perhaps from the host inflammatory response to the parasite's Wolbachia endosymbiont and as a consequence of superimposed bacterial or fungal infections. This review will attempt to shed light on disease pathogenesis in lymphatic filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B Nutman
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , Bethesda, Maryland
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Figueredo-Silva J, Norões J, Addiss D, Dreyer G. Sex ratio ofWuchereria bancroftiin surgical specimens from an endemic area of Brazil. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2013; 102:229-38. [PMID: 18348777 DOI: 10.1179/136485908x278757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Figueredo-Silva
- Núcleo de Ensino e Pesquisa em Patologia, Universidade Estadual do Piauí, Teresina, PI, Brazil
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Rizzo JA, Belo C, Lins R, Dreyer G. Children and adolescents infected withWuchereria bancroftiin Greater Recife, Brazil: a randomized, year-long clinical trial of single treatments with diethylcarbamazine or diethylcarbamazine–albendazole. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2013; 101:423-33. [PMID: 17550648 DOI: 10.1179/136485907x176517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In filariasis-endemic areas beyond sub-Saharan Africa, the World Health Organization's recommended strategy for interrupting transmission of the causative parasites is annual, single-dose, mass treatment with a combination of diethylcarbamazine (DEC; given at 6 mg/kg) and albendazole (ALB; given at 400 mg) for 4-6 years (the minimum estimated life-span of the adult parasites). In an open, hospital-based, randomized and controlled trial, with a blinded evaluation of outcome, 82 children and adolescents from Recife, all with Wuchereria bancrofti microfilaraemias, were given either DEC alone (6 mg/kg) or the same dose of DEC combined with ALB (at 400 mg/patient). Every 90 days for 1 year after the single treatment, each patient was checked for microfilaraemia by the filtration of up to 5 ml of venous blood collected at night. One year post-treatment, 16 (39%) of the 41 patients given DEC alone and 20 (49%) of the 41 given DEC-ALB were found microfilaraemic (relative risk=0.8, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.49-1.31) and the corresponding geometric mean levels of microfilaraemia were 2.0% and 1.8% of the levels recorded immediately pre-treatment, respectively (P>0.05). In terms of the prevalences and intensities of microfilaraemia, therefore, the addition of ALB to the DEC appeared to offer no significant benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Rizzo
- Centro de Pesquisas em Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Ambulatório de Alergia, Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Moraes Rego s/n, Cidade Universitária, CEP 50740-900, Recife, PE, Brazil
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Figueredo-Silva J, Dreyer G. Bancroftian filariasis in children and adolescents: clinical–pathological observations in 22 cases from an endemic area. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2013; 99:759-69. [PMID: 16297289 DOI: 10.1179/136485905x65170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In areas where bancroftian filariasis is endemic, the clinical manifestations of the disease, which are often very varied, appear most frequently during early adulthood or later. In consequence, very little attention, if any, has been given to the signs and symptoms of the disease in childhood. In an attempt to fill this gap, clinical and pathological observations were made, in Brazil, on 22 children (aged 2-15 years) who were infected with Wuchereria bancrofti. There was a predominance of lymph-node involvement. In all but three (14%) of the children (who had adult parasites in their intrascrotal lymphatic vessels), the adult worms were located in the afferent or efferent vessels of draining lymph nodes, predominantly in the inguinal region. None of the patients presented with distal lymphoedema, and the adenopathy was characterized by painless, localized, lymph-node enlargement, without signs of inflammation in the overlying skin. Histologically, the alterations in the lymphatic vessels and surrounding structures were similar to those described in adult patients, and depended essentially on adult-parasite viability. The localization of the adult worms in the paediatric cases was peculiar and distinct from that observed in adult patients, in whom the adult parasites are usually found in extra-nodal lymphatic vessels. In areas endemic for bancroftian filariasis, therefore, filarial infection should be considered as a possible cause of adenopathy. For the differential diagnosis of adenopathy in young patients from endemic areas, the authors recommend the use of ultrasound and other non-invasive diagnostic tools, as alternatives to excisional biopsies, which are often unnecessary in bancroftian filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Figueredo-Silva
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual do Piauí, Rua Olavo Bilac, 2335 - Centro-Sul, Teresina, PI, CEP 64001-280, Brazil
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Harinath BC, Reddy MV, Bhunia B, Bhandari YP, Mehta VK, Chaturvedi P, Prajapati NC, Gupta RK. Filaria associated clinical manifestations in children in an endemic area and morbidity control by immunomonitoring and optimal DEC therapy: Sevagram experience. Indian J Clin Biochem 2012; 15:118-26. [PMID: 23105275 DOI: 10.1007/bf02867551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis is a major public health problem in India with 412 million people living in bancroftian endemic areas and is a major cause of clinical morbidity. Twenty million people are reported to suffer from chronic disease manifestations such as lymphoedema, hydrocele or elephantiasis. At least twice the number have been shown to suffer from acute and occult filarial infections in an endemic area without diagnosis. Due to non-availability of suitable diagnostic test for confirming filaria aetiology other than parasitological examination, no significant study on filariasis in children has been reported earlier. Studies in our laboratory for more than a decade showed usefulness of microfilarial excretory-secretory antigen in confirming filarial aetiology in acute and occult infections in adults as well as in children. This study reports acute and atypical manifestations such as lymphadenopathy, asthmatic bronchitis, pulmonary eosinophilia, mono-arthritis, recurrent URI, pneumonia, nutritional anemia, pain in abdomen etc. in children living in filaria endemic area having no microfilaraemia but showing filaria aetiology by immunomonitoring for the presence of antibody or antigen and responding to optimal DEC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- B C Harinath
- JB Tropical Disease Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, 442102 Sevagram, (Wardha) India
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Immunopathogenesis of lymphatic filarial disease. Semin Immunopathol 2012; 34:847-61. [PMID: 23053393 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-012-0346-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
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).
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Brandão E, Bonfim C, Cabral D, Lima JL, Aguiar-Santos AM, Maciel A, Medeiros Z. Mapping of Wuchereria bancrofti infection in children and adolescents in an endemic area of Brazil. Acta Trop 2011; 120:151-4. [PMID: 21726520 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2011.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2011] [Accepted: 06/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A parasitological survey was conducted among children and adolescents in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Brazil to describe the occurrence and spatial distribution of lymphatic filariasis. Microfilaraemia was investigated through the thick smear technique, using 50 μl of capillary blood that was collected at night. The spatial analysis used a digital base map of the municipality, divided into districts, which were classified as hypoendemic, mesoendemic or hyperendemic. 8670 children were examined and 96 cases of microfilaraemia were identified (1.1%). The prevalence rate did not differ significantly between the sexes. Occurrences of filarial infection increased with increasing age: the greatest prevalence was recorded between 15 and 18 years of age (P<0.05). There were 49 reports of clinical manifestations. The spatial distribution of microfilaraemia according to residential district showed that 13 (54.2%) of the 24 districts investigated were positive. Approximately 33% of the districts were hyperendemic. The results demonstrated that the pediatric population had intense early exposure to the parasite, thus characterizing filariasis as endemic in the municipality. The spatial analysis allowed identification of areas with greater occurrence of infection among children, and showed localities where the populations most exposed to transmission were concentrated. Epidemiological surveillance of microfilaraemia among children and spatial analysis are important local transmission indicators and form instruments for planning actions within the Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis, since they make it possible to identify priority areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Brandão
- Parasitology Department, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, PE, Brazil.
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Lymphatic filariasis in children: clinical features, infection burdens and future prospects for elimination. Parasitology 2011; 138:1559-68. [PMID: 21810306 DOI: 10.1017/s003118201100117x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis (LF), a common parasitic infection in tropical countries, causes lymphoedema of limbs, hydrocele and acute attacks of dermato-lymphangio-adenitis. Recent advances in diagnosis have helped to recognize that LF infection is often acquired in childhood. Newly available diagnostic techniques like sensitive antigen and antibody assays, Doppler ultrasonography and lymphoscintigraphy have helped to understand the subclinical pathology caused by this infection, which was hitherto generally believed to be irreversible. Recent studies indicate that drugs used in the mass drug administration (MDA) programme under GPELF are capable of reversing the sub-clinical lymphatic damage in children and provide benefits other than interruption of transmission. Albendazole and ivermectin used in MDA are effective against soil-transmitted helminthic infections common in children in LF endemic areas. Thus MDA had other 'beyond LF' benefits in treated children including increased appetite, weight gain, greater learning ability and concentration, better school attendance and prevention of anaemia. MDA should no longer be viewed as a measure for interrupting transmission alone. Recent findings of reversibility of early lymphatic pathology in treated children indicate that both MDA and 'foot-hygiene' measures are effective strategies in preventing and managing morbidity. Programme managers should effectively utilize this information to strengthen their advocacy efforts to achieve high and sustainable coverage in MDA.
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Gordon S, Melrose W, Warner J, Buttner P, Ward L. Lymphatic filariasis: a method to identify subclinical lower limb change in PNG adolescents. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1242. [PMID: 21811644 PMCID: PMC3139669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema related to lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a disabling condition that commonly manifests in adolescence. Fifty-three adolescents, 25 LF infected and 28 LF non-infected, in age and sex-matched groups, using the Binax ICT rapid card test for filarial antigen were recruited to the study. None of the participants had overt signs of lymphedema. Lymphedema assessment measures were used to assess lower limb tissue compressibility (tonometry), limb circumference (tape measure), intra- and extra-cellular fluid distribution (bioimpedance) and joint range of motion (goniometry). The mean tonometric measurements from the left, right, and dominant posterior thighs were significantly larger in participants with LF compared to participants who had tested negative for LF (p = 0.005, p = 0.004, and p = 0.003, respectively) indicating increased tissue compressibility in those adolescents with LF. ROC curve analysis to define optimal cut-off of the tonometry measurements indicated that at 3.5, sensitivity of this potential screening test is 100% (95%-CI = 86.3%, 100%) and specificity is 21.4% (95%-CI = 8.3%, 41.0%). It is proposed that this cut-off can be used to indicate tissue change characteristic of LF in an at-risk population of PNG adolescents. Further longitudinal research is required to establish if all those with tissue change subsequently develop lymphedema. However, thigh tonometry to identify early tissue change in LF positive adolescents may enable early intervention to minimize progression of lymphedema and prioritization of limited resources to those at greatest risk of developing lifetime morbidity. The effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF) on the lymphatic system often become apparent during adolescence when the lower limb swells due to lymphedema and males develop hydrocele. Currently there is no simple or mobile field method to identify those at greatest risk of developing lymphedema or those with early subclinical lower limb change. Fifty-three adolescents, 25 LF infected and 28 LF non-infected were recruited to the study. The groups were compared with respect to lower limb tissue compressibility (tonometry), limb circumference (tape measure), intra- and extra-cellular fluid distribution (bioimpedance) and hip, knee and ankle joint range of motion (goniometry). Tonometry, is a simple, inexpensive tool, which measures the distance a plunger will indent the soft tissues. Those adolescents who were LF positive had significantly increased soft tissue compressibility when assessed with tonometry than adolescents who were LF negative. Tonometry has high levels of sensitivity to identify adolescents who test positive to LF. If we are able to identify adolescents before they have overt symptoms, management practices to decrease disease progression can be implemented. This could prevent lifetime morbidity and allow allocation of scarce resources to those identified to be most at risk of developing lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Gordon
- School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
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Bennuru S, Nutman TB. Lymphatics in human lymphatic filariasis: in vitro models of parasite-induced lymphatic remodeling. Lymphat Res Biol 2010; 7:215-9. [PMID: 20143920 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2009.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis characterized by the dysfunction of the lymphatics can lead to severe (and often) irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis. Decades of research in the field shows that the establishment of the adult parasites in the lymphatics triggers a cascade of events that ultimately results in tissue scarring and fibrosis. In this minireview, we focus on the studies addressing the mechanisms underlying the parasite-induced lymphatic dilatation that suggests parasite-induced lymphatic remodeling and lymphangiogenesis may be the prelude towards developing chronic and irreversible filarial pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasisekhar Bennuru
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-0425, USA.
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Shenoy RK, Suma TK, Kumaraswami V, Rahmah N, Dhananjayan G, Padma S. Antifilarial drugs, in the doses employed in mass drug administrations by the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis, reverse lymphatic pathology in children with Brugia malayi infection. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2010; 103:235-47. [PMID: 19341538 DOI: 10.1179/136485909x398249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis is increasingly viewed as the result of an infection that is often acquired in childhood. The lymphatic pathology that occurs in the disease is generally believed to be irreversible. In a recent study in India, Doppler ultrasonography and lymphoscintigraphy were used to explore subclinical pathology in 100 children from an area endemic for Brugia malayi infection. All the children investigated showed some evidence of current or previous filarial infection. Some were microfilaraemic but asymptomatic, some were amicrofilaraemic but had filarial disease or a past history of microfilaraemia and/or filarial disease, and the rest, though amicrofilaraemic, asymptomatic and without any history of microfilaraemia or filarial disease, were seropositive for antifilarial IgG(4) antibodies. All the children were treated every 6 months, with a single combined dose of diethylcarbamazine (6 mg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg), and followed up for 24 months. By the end of this period all but one of the children were amicrofilaraemic and the 'filarial dance sign' could not be detected in any of the 14 children who had initially been found positive for this sign. Although lymphoscintigraphy revealed lymph-node and lymph-vessel damage in 82% of the children at enrolment, in about 67% of the children this pathology was markedly reduced by the 24-month follow-up. These results indicate that the drug regimens used in the mass drug administrations run by the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis are capable of reversing subclinical lymphatic damage and can provide benefits other than interruption of transmission in endemic areas. The implications of these findings are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Shenoy
- Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, T.D. Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha - 688 011, Kerala, India.
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Bennuru S, Nutman TB. Lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic remodeling induced by filarial parasites: implications for pathogenesis. PLoS Pathog 2009; 5:e1000688. [PMID: 20011114 PMCID: PMC2781552 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1000688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Even in the absence of an adaptive immune system in murine models, lymphatic dilatation and dysfunction occur in filarial infections, although severe irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis appears to require an intact adaptive immune response in human infections. To address how filarial parasites and their antigens influence the lymphatics directly, human lymphatic endothelial cells were exposed to filarial antigens, live parasites, or infected patient serum. Live filarial parasites or filarial antigens induced both significant LEC proliferation and differentiation into tube-like structures in vitro. Moreover, serum from patently infected (microfilaria positive) patients and those with longstanding chronic lymphatic obstruction induced significantly increased LEC proliferation compared to sera from uninfected individuals. Differentiation of LEC into tube-like networks was found to be associated with significantly increased levels of matrix metalloproteases and inhibition of their TIMP inhibitors (Tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteases). Comparison of global gene expression induced by live parasites in LEC to parasite-unexposed LEC demonstrated that filarial parasites altered the expression of those genes involved in cellular organization and development as well as those associated with junction adherence pathways that in turn decreased trans-endothelial transport as assessed by FITC-Dextran. The data suggest that filarial parasites directly induce lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic differentiation and provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the pathology seen in lymphatic filariasis. The nematode parasites Brugia malayi and Wuchereria bancrofti are the major organisms responsible for lymphatic filariasis. Lymphatic filariasis is characterized by the dysfunction of the lymphatics that can lead to severe (and often) irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis. Current advances in distinguishing blood vascular from lymphatic endothelial cells have allowed the direct study of the interaction between live filarial parasites and their lymphatic niche. In the quest towards understanding parasite-lymphatic endothelium interactions, we observed that the filarial antigens have a specific but differential stimulatory capacity towards the lymphatics and cause them to differentiate into tube-like vascular networks in vitro that resemble the formation of collateral lymphatics in vivo. This was a lymphatic-specific phenomenon, as the filarial parasites or antigen did not exhibit similar effects on the human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The differentiation of the lymphatic endothelial monolayers into vascular networks was not dependent on typical markers of lymphangiogenesis but rather involves the matrix metalloproteases and their inhibitors that suggest lymphatic matrix remodeling rather than rendering of the lymphatics hyper-permeable as has been postulated previously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasisekhar Bennuru
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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15
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Shenoy RK. Clinical and pathological aspects of filarial lymphedema and its management. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2008; 46:119-25. [PMID: 18830049 PMCID: PMC2553332 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2008.46.3.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2008] [Accepted: 07/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis, transmitted by mosquitoes is the commonest cause of lymphedema in endemic countries. Among 120 million infected people in 83 countries, up to 16 million have lymphedema. Microfilariae ingested by mosquitoes grow into infective larvae. These larvae entering humans after infected mosquito bites grow in the lymphatics to adult worms that cause damage to lymphatics resulting in dilatation of lymph vessels. This earliest pathology is demonstrated in adults as well as in children, by ultrasonography, lymphoscintigraphy and histopathology studies. Once established, this damage was thought to be irreversible. This lymphatic damage predisposes to bacterial infection that causes recurrent acute attacks of dermato-lymphangio-adenitis in the affected limbs. Bacteria, mainly streptococci gain entry into the lymphatics through 'entry lesions' in skin, like interdigital fungal infections, injuries, eczema or similar causes that disrupt integrity of skin. Attacks of dermato-lymphangio-adenitis aggravates lymphatic damage causing lymphedema, which gets worse with repeated acute attacks. Elephantiasis is a late manifestation of lymphatic filariasis, which apart from limbs may involve genitalia or breasts. Lymphedema management includes use of antifilarial drugs in early stages, treatment and prevention of acute attacks through 'limb-hygiene', antibiotics and antifungals where indicated, and physical measures to reduce the swelling. In selected cases surgery is helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Shenoy
- Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, T. D. Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha-688 011, Kerala, India.
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Mattos D, Mota S, Dreyer G. [Aspects of the social realities of children and adolescents seen at a reference service for bancroftian filariasis in Recife, state of Pernambuco]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2008; 41:29-35. [PMID: 18368267 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822008000100006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2007] [Accepted: 01/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors report on aspects of the social realities of children and adolescents living in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, State of Pernambuco, who were diagnosed with Bancroftian filariasis infection and were treated at the Filariasis Teaching, Research and Care Center of the Federal University of Pernambuco (Health Sciences Center), which is a tertiary-level reference service for filariasis. The patients' housing conditions were quantified and classified as subhuman, with a direct relationship with the maintenance of Bancroftian filariasis transmission, and the authors highlight the need for political decisions regarding the implementation of basic sanitation projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Mattos
- Núcleo de Ensino, Pesquisa e Assistência em Filariose, Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Rua Consilheiro Portela 665, Recife, PE.
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Shenoy RK, Suma TK, Kumaraswami V, Padma S, Rahmah N, Abhilash G, Ramesh C. Doppler ultrasonography reveals adult-worm nests in the lymph vessels of children with brugian filariasis. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2007; 101:173-80. [PMID: 17316503 DOI: 10.1179/136485907x154566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Although ultrasonography has allowed 'nests' of live adult worms and dilated lymphatics to be detected in the early stages of infection with Wuchereria bancrofti, previous attempts to locate such adult-worm nests in brugian filariasis have been unsuccessful. In this study, the successful location of live adult Brugia malayi parasites, in the lymphatics of the axilla, thigh, epitrochlear region and/or popliteal fossa of children aged 3-15 years, is described for the first time. The 'filarial dance sign' (FDS), which indicates the presence of live adult worms, was observed in six children with microfilaraemia and in eight children who, though amicrofilaraemic, either had experienced an episode of lymphoedema (one) or were only positive for antifilarial IgG4 antibodies (seven). In bancroftian infection, the adult-worm nests have mostly been seen in asymptomatic but microfilaraemic subjects. The suspected worm nests, 18 in the 14 children, were all confirmed using colour-power and pulse-wave Doppler examinations. The worm nests were distinctly smaller and the wriggling movements were less rapid and less conspicuous than those seen in bancroftian filariasis. The importance of these findings in the management and control of lymphatic filariasis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Shenoy
- Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, T.D. Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha - 688011, Kerala, India.
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Shenoy RK, Suma TK, Kumaraswami V, Rahmah N, Dhananjayan G, Padma S, Abhilash G, Ramesh C. Preliminary findings from a cross-sectional study on lymphatic filariasis in children, in an area of India endemic for Brugia malayi infection. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2007; 101:205-13. [PMID: 17362595 DOI: 10.1179/136485907x154548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
As the more obvious clinical manifestations of the disease are very uncommon in children, lymphatic filariasis has been considered to be primarily a disease of adults. In many recent reports, however, there is evidence indicating not only that filarial infection is commonly acquired in childhood but also that many infected children already have irreversible damage to their lymphatics. The preliminary results of a cross-sectional study on the patterns of Brugia-attributable pathology in 7934 children (aged 3-15 years) who live in an area of India with endemic B. malayi infection confirm these trends. The children were screened for microfilaraemia, evidence of filarial disease, and the presence of antifilarial IgG(4) antibodies. One hundred children who were microfilaraemic but asymptomatic (32), with filarial disease or an history of such disease or microfilaraemia (29) or amicrofilaraemic and asymptomatic but seropositive for antifilarial IgG(4) (39) were investigated further. They were given detailed clinical examinations, their levels of microfilaraemia were evaluated (by counting microfilariae filtered out of blood samples), their lymphatics were explored by Doppler sonography, and their limbs were checked by lymphoscintigraphy. The 'filarial dance sign', which indicates the presence of live adult worms, was detected by sonography in 14 children (apparently the first time this sign has been observed in brugian filariasis). Lymphoscintigraphy revealed dilated lymphatic channels in the limbs of 80 of the children. At the end of the study, each of the 100 hospitalized children was treated with a single combined dose of diethylcarbamazine and albendazole; the aim is to follow-up the treated children every 6 months for 3 years. Even these preliminary results have important implications for filariasis-control programmes and emphasise the need for disability-alleviation efforts among children as well as adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Shenoy
- Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, T.D. Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha - 688 011, Kerala, India.
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Njenga SM, Wamae CN, Njomo DW, Mwandawiro CS, Molyneux DH. Chronic clinical manifestations related to Wuchereria bancrofti infection in a highly endemic area in Kenya. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2006; 101:439-44. [PMID: 17145069 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2006.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2006] [Accepted: 09/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical examinations were conducted in an effort to provide baseline data for a pilot filariasis elimination programme implemented in a Wuchereria bancrofti-endemic focus in Malindi district, Kenya. Of 186 males aged 15 years and above examined, 64 individuals (34.4%) had hydrocele, and the prevalence of the manifestation in those above 40 years old was 55.3%. The prevalence of leg lymphoedema in persons aged 15 years and above was 8.5%, with a higher rate in males (12.6%) than in females (5.7%). The overall prevalence of inguinal adenopathy was 8.6%, and males had a significantly higher (12.9%) prevalence of adenopathy than females (5.1%) (P<0.001). The data in the present study provided support for consideration of filarial infection as a possible cause of inguinal lymphadenopathy in bancroftian filariasis-endemic areas. The results of this study also indicate that lymphatic filariasis is a serious public health problem in the northern coastal areas and morbidity control programmes should be implemented to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Njenga
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Mbagathi Road, Nairobi, Kenya.
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Mand S, Supali T, Djuardi J, Kar S, Ravindran B, Hoerauf A. Detection of adult Brugia malayi filariae by ultrasonography in humans in India and Indonesia. Trop Med Int Health 2006; 11:1375-81. [PMID: 16930259 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2006.01693.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In bancroftian filariasis, ultrasonography (USG) is a suitable tool to monitor infection by the detection of adult filariae in addition to antigen detection tests (ICT, Og4C3). However, in brugian filariasis, ultrasound examinations in humans have so far failed to detect adult worms and no antigen test is available to verify infections in patients who are carriers of adult worms but amicrofilaraemic. In this study, we describe the feasibility of detection of adult Brugia malayi filariae by USG. Worm nests were detected in 4 of 32 patients in India and Indonesia, located in the breast, the thigh, the calf and an inguinal lymph node. The study shows that adult filariae of B. malayi in humans can be detected by USG, but the technique is limited by the fact that worm nests seem not to be stable over time in humans, as is the case in bancroftian filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mand
- Institute of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany.
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Rajendran R, Sunish IP, Mani TR, Munirathinam A, Arunachalam N, Satyanarayana K, Dash AP. Community-based study to assess the efficacy of DEC plus ALB against DEC alone on bancroftian filarial infection in endemic areas in Tamil Nadu, south India. Trop Med Int Health 2006; 11:851-61. [PMID: 16772007 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2006.01625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
As part of the Global Programme for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF), India is implementing mass drug administration (MDA) with annual single dose of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) with and without albendazole (ALB). The impact of MDAs on filarial infections and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections was assessed during a 3-year period in two communities, one with DEC + ALB and the other with DEC alone. Prior to each MDA (during 2001, 2002 and 2003), filarial indices (microfilaraemia and antigenaemia) were assessed from blood samples of 450-650 persons aged 2-25 years and STH infections in stool samples (Kato-Katz method) from 325 to 500 children aged 9-10 years. Mosquitoes resting indoors were collected to determine the filarial infection status. The microfilaraemia prevalence decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in both arms, with the highest decline in the DEC + ALB arm (72%vs. 51%). Decline in micrefilaria intensity was also higher in the DEC + ALB arm (81.4%vs. 48.5%). In this arm alone, the antigenaemia prevalence was reduced significantly (62%; P < 0.001). The reduction in STH prevalence was lower in the DEC alone arm (6.5%; NS) than in the DEC + ALB arm (70.9%; P < 0.001). Also, the egg reduction in DEC alone arm was only half that of DEC + ALB arm (49%vs. 97%). Our community-based follow-up study showed higher and sustained benefits with regard to filarial and STH infections for the two-drug arm over the DEC alone arm. The trends suggest that at least 10 MDAs may be necessary to achieve the goal of elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rajendran
- Centre for Research in Medical Entomology, Madurai, India.
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Sunish IP, Rajendran R, Mani TR, Dash AP, Tyagi BK. Evidence for the use of albendazole for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis. THE LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2006; 6:125-6. [PMID: 16500593 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(06)70392-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Mand S, Debrah A, Batsa L, Adjei O, Hoerauf A. Reliable and frequent detection of adult Wuchereria bancrofti in Ghanaian women by ultrasonography. Trop Med Int Health 2004; 9:1111-4. [PMID: 15482404 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2004.01304.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Detection of adult Wuchereria bancrofti by ultrasonography of the scrotal region in men is a suitable diagnostic tool for lymphatic filariasis, whereas there are only a few case reports of adult filariae observed by ultrasonography in women. We examined 35 microfilaraemic women ultrasonographically in sites of the body suspected as locations for worm nests. In 15 women the 'filaria dance sign' (FDS) was detected in various locations, some being novel, such as adult worms within lymphatic vessels between muscular fibres of the thighs. The surprisingly high number of worm nests detectable in microfilaraemic women recommends ultrasonography for diagnosis and treatment efficacy monitoring of female patients infected with W. bancrofti.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Mand
- Institute of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany.
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Rajendran R, Sunish IP, Mani TR, Munirathinam A, Abdullah SM, Arunachalam N, Satyanarayana K. Impact of two annual single-dose mass drug administrations with diethylcarbamazine alone or in combination with albendazole on Wuchereria bancrofti microfilaraemia and antigenaemia in South India. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2004; 98:174-81. [PMID: 15024928 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(03)00042-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A two-arm community-based lymphatic filariasis elimination trial is being carried out in Tamil Nadu state, India to assess the effect of 2 annual single-dose mass drug administrations of diethylcarbamazine + albendazole (DEC + ALB) on microfilaraemia and antigenaemia in one arm, and diethylcarbamazine(DEC) alone in the other arm. In a cross-sectional survey at each time-point, 450-650 subjects in childhood (2-9 years old) and young adulthood (10-25 years old) were screened from each treatment arm. After 2 annual mass drug administrations, microfilaraemia prevalence in the 2-drug arm was reduced by 54% and 62% in the 2-9 year old and 10-25 year old groups respectively; and corresponding figures for the single-drug arm were 26% and 37%. Though higher reductions were recorded for geometric mean intensity of microfilaraemia in the 2-9 year old groups for both treatment arms, reduction was more pronounced in the 2-drug arm than the single drug arm (74% vs. 24%) in the 10-25 year old group. The reduction in the antigenaemia prevalence in the 2-9 year old group was evident in both treatment arms, but in the 10-25 year old group the reduction was only 16.8% in the 2-drug arm. Our results suggest that the annual, single-dose combination (DEC + ALB) mass treatment regimen has an enhanced effect against bancroftian filariasis compared to single-drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rajendran
- Centre for Research in Medical Entomology (Indian Council of Medical Research), 9/4, Sarojini Street, Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, Tamil Nadu-625 002, India.
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Noroes J, Addiss D, Cedenho A, Figueredo-Silva J, Lima G, Dreyer G. Pathogenesis of filarial hydrocele: risk associated with intrascrotal nodulescaused by death of adult Wuchereria bancrofti. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2003; 97:561-6. [PMID: 15307427 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(03)80029-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although testicular hydrocele is the most common clinical manifestation of bancroftian filariasis, its pathogenesis is poorly understood, as is its relationship to inflammatory scrotal nodules following death of adult Wuchereria bancrofti. Between 1994 and 1998, we prospectively determined the incidence and clinical evolution of nodule-associated acute hydrocele in men attending 2 outpatient clinics in Recife, Brazil who were infected with W. bancrofti, had living adult worms detectable by ultrasound in the intrascrotal lymphatic vessels, and were scheduled for treatment with 6 mg/kg diethylcarbamazine (DEC). A total of 132 men developed 173 scrotal nodules 1-7 (mean 4.2) d after DEC treatment and another 47 developed 58 spontaneous nodules before they received DEC treatment. These 179 men with a single 'nodule event' (simultaneous development of > or =1 scrotal nodules) were followed-up by serial physical and ultrasound examinations for 18 months. Overall, 40 (22.3%) men developed acute hydrocele, 3 of whom underwent biopsy and hydrocele repair. Of the remaining 37 men, 9 (24.3%) developed chronic hydrocele and 28 had acute hydrocele resolution within 14-210 (mean 60.9) d. Rate of chronic hydrocele was similar for men who received DEC and those with spontaneous nodules. Seventeen (42.5%) men with hydrocele had multiple scrotal nodules, compared with 28 (20.1%) men who did not develop hydrocele (P= 0.007). Of 134 men with single nodules, superior paratesticular nodules were found in 56.5% and 29.7% of those with and without hydrocele, respectively (P = 0.02). Acute hydrocele occurs frequently following death of adult W. bancrofti and single episodes of scrotal nodule formation. Chronic hydrocele may develop following 5.1% of these episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Noroes
- Serviço de Urologia, Departamento de Cirurgia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil.
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Lammie PJ, Cuenco KT, Punkosdy GA. The pathogenesis of filarial lymphedema: is it the worm or is it the host? Ann N Y Acad Sci 2002; 979:131-42; discussion 188-96. [PMID: 12543723 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2002.tb04874.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the pathogenesis of filarial lymphedema, although evolving, is still limited. Recurrent bacterial infections play a major role in the progression of lymphedema to elephantiasis, but the host and parasite factors that trigger disease development are not known. Field studies in Haiti show that lymphedema and host responses to parasite antigens cluster in families, consistent with the hypothesis that host genes influence lymphedema susceptibility. The recent recognition that filarial parasites harbor the endosymbiotic bacteria, Wolbachia, also raises questions about the potential contribution of the inflammatory response to Wolbachia antigens to lymphedema development. In this review, we discuss potential risk factors for lymphedema and try to integrate these in a model of pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Lammie
- Division of Parasitic Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, USA.
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Simonsen PE, Bernhard P, Jaoko WG, Meyrowitsch DW, Malecela-Lazaro MN, Magnussen P, Michael E. Filaria dance sign and subclinical hydrocoele in two east African communities with bancroftian filariasis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2002; 96:649-53. [PMID: 12625143 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(02)90342-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During population-wide cross-sectional surveys for Wuchereria bancrofti microfilaremia, circulating antigenaemia, and clinical disease in a high and a low endemicity community in East Africa in 1998, a portable ultrasound scanner was used simultaneously to examine the scrotal tissue of the male populations (n = 422 and 328, respectively) for signs of adult worms. The overall microfilaria (mf) and circulating filarial antigen (CFA) prevalences in the scanned males were 30.8% and 53.6% in the high and 4.3% and 19.8% in the low endemicity community, respectively. During ultrasound examination, the filaria dance sign (FDS)--indicating the presence of live adult W. bancrofti worms--was observed in 16.1% and 6.7% of the males in these communities, respectively. This examination also revealed that subclinical hydrocoele (fluid accumulation in the scrotal sac, not detected during physical examination for clinical hydrocoele) was very common, affecting 25.3% and 15.5% of the examined males in the high and low endemicity community, respectively. Both of these ultrasonographic signs started to appear around the age of puberty and were most common in adults. In the high endemicity community, the prevalence and mean intensity of mf and CFA were considerably higher in FDS-positive than in FDS-negative adult males, whereas no obvious difference in these parameters was noted between adult males with and without subclinical or the combination of clinical and subclinical hydrocoele. Associations were less clear in the low endemicity community, probably because of the low number of infected individuals. The application of ultrasonography as a tool in bancroftian filariasis epidemiological field studies thus indicated that scrotal pathology may be much more common in endemic areas than hitherto reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Simonsen
- Danish Bilharziasis Laboratory, Jaegersborg Alle 1 D, 2920 Charlottenlund, Denmark.
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Figueredo-Silva J, Norões J, Cedenho A, Dreyer G. The histopathology of bancroftian filariasis revisited: the role of the adult worm in the lymphatic-vessel disease. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2002; 96:531-41. [PMID: 12396316 DOI: 10.1179/000349802125001348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Although morphology is generally limited to static images, the histopathological features of bancroftian lymphatic disease are presented here in a way that is as dynamic as possible and closely associated with the clinical, ultrasonographic and surgical characteristics. The protean spectrum of alterations seen in the host's lymphatic vessels is discussed, and the changes caused by the live and dead worms are highlighted, as independent events. Evidence of a remodelling process, in which the lymphatic endothelial cells appear to have a key role, is provided for the first time. Despite many new pieces of information, there remain many 'blank pages' in the natural history of bancroftian filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Figueredo-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keiso Asami, Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Moraes Rego s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-900, Brazil
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DeVries CR. The role of the urologist in the treatment and elimination of lymphatic filariasis worldwide. BJU Int 2002; 89 Suppl 1:37-43. [PMID: 11876731 DOI: 10.1046/j.1465-5101.2001.vries.137.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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30
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Dreyer G, Addiss D, Roberts J, Norões J. Progression of lymphatic vessel dilatation in the presence of living adult Wuchereria bancrofti. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2002; 96:157-61. [PMID: 12055805 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(02)90288-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bancroftian filariasis, a mosquito-transmitted disease commonly known as elephantiasis, is caused by infection with the parasite Wuchereria bancrofti. Infection with this parasite can induce a broad array of chronic debilitating and socially stigmatizing conditions, but the pathogenesis of this morbidity remains obscure. Recent evidence indicates that in filariasis-endemic areas the primary lesion is not lymphatic vessel obstruction but, rather, dilatation. To determine the extent to which lymphatic dilatation occurs in the presence of living adult W. bancrofti, we performed longitudinal ultrasonographic measurements in 80 men (mean age 24 years) in Brazil who had a total of 107 W. bancrofti nests detectable by ultrasound. Initial mean lymphatic vessel diameter at the site of the worms was 3.4 mm (range, 0.7-11.3), and was greater in men with 2 or more nests (3.9 mm) than in those with only one nest (3.0 mm, P = 0.003). During the study period (2-35 months, mean, 13.7), lymphatic vessel diameter increased at the site of 92 (86.0%) adult worm nests. Mean rate of increase of lymphatic vessel diameter was 1.2 mm per person-year (range, 0-0.93 mm per month). In a general linear model, no factors, including treatment with antifilarial drugs, were significantly associated with rate of vessel diameter increase. Thus, lymphatic vessel dilatation progress in the presence of living adult W. bancrofti; the rate of this progression is heterogeneous. These data suggest that lymphatic dilatation will continue to progress in most infected persons even after mass treatment with currently recommended antifilarial drugs. In addition to interrupting transmission, the global programme for elimination of lymphatic filariasis should address the potential for disease progression in persons who remain infected with adult W. bancrofti.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerusa Dreyer
- Núcleo de Ensino Pesquisa e Assistência em Filariose, NEPAF, Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil.
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Dreyer G, Dreyer P, Noroes J. [Recommendations for the treatment of bancroftian filariasis in symptomless and diseased patients]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2002; 35:43-50. [PMID: 11873261 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822002000100009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The goals of treatment for lymphatic filariasis are: to prevent, reverse, or halt progression of disease; and to interrupt transmission of the parasite. Selecting the appropriate therapy for the patient with lymphatic filariasis requires knowledge of the various clinical features of filarial disease and their pathogenesis. In the past, treatment of lymphatic filariasis has focused primarily on antiparasitic chemotherapy; however, for many of the acute and chronic manifestations of lymphatic filariasis, it is now clear that supportive or other forms of clinical care are even more important than antiparasitic medication in order to prevent worsening of the disease. Regardless of the clinical manifestations of filarial disease in a particular patient, the following three components of treatment should, in general, be considered: supportive or disease specific clinical care (including hygiene and diet), patient education and counseling and finally, antiparasitic chemotherapy with diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and/or the combination of DEC with ivermectin. The authors also describe the proportional efficacy of diethylcarbamazine and ivermectin, alone or in combination, for use in mass treatment aiming at transmission interruption and the use of hygiene as a public health approach for lymphedema prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerusa Dreyer
- Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Recife, Brasil
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Dreyer G, Norões J, Figueredo-Silva J, Piessens WF. Pathogenesis of lymphatic disease in bancroftian filariasis: a clinical perspective. PARASITOLOGY TODAY (PERSONAL ED.) 2000; 16:544-8. [PMID: 11121854 DOI: 10.1016/s0169-4758(00)01778-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of lymphatic filariasis has been a matter of debate for many decades. Here, Gerusa Dreyer and colleagues propose a dynamic model of bancroftian filariasis, integrating clinical, parasitological, surgical, therapeutic, ultrasonographic and histopathological data. This model has profound implications for filariasis control programs and the management of the individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Dreyer
- NEPAF, Departamento de Cirurgia Hospital das Clinicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Prof Moraes Rego, s/n 5o andar, Cidade Universitária, Recife, 50740-900, PE, Brazil.
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Dreyer G, Norões J, Figueredo-Silva J. New insights into the natural history and pathology of bancroftian filariasis: implications for clinical management and filariasis control programmes. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2000; 94:594-6. [PMID: 11198637 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(00)90200-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Dreyer
- Núcleo de Ensino Pesquisa e Assisência em Filariose (NEPAF), Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Moraes Rego s/n, 5o andar, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 50740-900, Brazil.
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Shenoy RK, John A, Babu BS, Suma TK, Kumaraswami V. Two-year follow-up of the microfilaraemia of asymptomatic brugian filariasis, after treatment with two, annual, single doses of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine and albendazole, in various combinations. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2000; 94:607-14. [PMID: 11064762 DOI: 10.1080/00034983.2000.11813583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Repeated, single, oral doses of combinations of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or albendazole are recognized as important tools for parasite control in lymphatic filariasis. In order to assess the effects of re-treatment using these combinations in Brugia malayi infections, 40 asymptomatic microfilaraemics were re-treated at the end of the first year, with an additional, single, dose of the combination they had previously received. They were then followed-up for another year. The subjects, of both sexes and aged 14-70 years, each received a two-drug combination: ivermectin (200 micrograms/kg) with DEC (6 mg/kg); ivermectin (200 micrograms/kg) with albendazole (400 mg); or DEC (6 mg/kg) with albendazole (400 mg). The kinetics of microfilarial clearance were similar to that seen during the first treatment, the members of the two groups given DEC having less intense microfilaraemias, 1 year after the re-treatment, than those given ivermectin with albendazole (P < 0.001 for each comparison). At this time, the two DEC groups also had a higher proportion of amicrofilaraemic individuals (22 of 26) than the ivermectin + albendazole group (three of nine). There were fewer adverse reactions in all the groups after re-treatment than seen after the first treatment. In countries such as India, where there is no co-endemicity of onchocerciasis or loiasis, the options for control programmes in areas where brugian filariasis is endemic are DEC alone or DEC in combination with ivermectin or albendazole. Where there is no access to ivermectin, transmission control must be based on DEC alone or in combination with albendazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Shenoy
- Filariasis Chemotherapy Unit, T.D. Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha, India.
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Dreyer G, Dreyer P. [Rational for morbidity management in bancroftian filariasis endemic areas]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2000; 33:217-21. [PMID: 10881137 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822000000200010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Selection of the most appropriate therapy for the patient with bancroftian filariasis requires a knowledge of the diverse clinical characteristics of filarial disease and their pathogenesis. As a result of new diagnostic tests and clinical advances, our understanding of bancroftian filariasis has changed rapidly, as have our ideas about treatment. In the past, it was believed that elephantiasis was caused by an immunologic reaction of the host to the filarial parasite. From this perspective, elephantiasis was seen as the endpoint of an unalterable relationship between the host and the parasite, and given the absence of effective medication or procedures, affected individuals were considered "immunologically predisposed" to this end-stage disease. In the last few years, however, new evidence has suggested that lymphedema and elephantiasis have another etiologic agent. Namely, the principal factor in the evolution of lymphedema and elephantiasis is the involvement of recurrent secondary bacterial infections. Today, it is clear that other forms of supportive therapy (including education and psychological counseling) are necessary and are often more important than antiparasitic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Dreyer
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brasil
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