Onchoceriasis Filariasis (River Blindness) | Medtick
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Onchoceriasis Filariasis (River Blindness)

What is it?

A Filariasis type parasite infection caused by the bite an infected black fly (Simulium species).

  • Parasites can grow in your body for up to a year.
  • Worms in body can grow upto 80 cm in length.
  • They live under the skin and eye (in nodules) for 10-15 years leading to dry rough skin and blindness.
  • Black flies are found near fast flowing rivers in:
    • Africa (90%)
    • Latin America
    • Yemen

Diagnosis tests

  • Skin snip microscopy
  • PCR testing
  • Serological tests
    • Ov16 antibody rapid test
    • ELISA-based antibody tests
  • Slit-lamp eye examination
  • Nodule examination/biopsy

B. Lymphatic Filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia species)

  • Blood microscopy
  • Antigen detection tests (Wuchereria bancrofti)
    • Filarial antigen rapid tests
    • ELISA-based antigen tests
  • PCR testing
  • Ultrasound examination
  • Serology

Cause

  • Parasite: Onchocerca volvus

Symptoms

  • Skin is very itchy and spotty?
    • Lower trunk?
    • Pelvis?
    • Buttocks?
    • Thighs?
    • Legs?
  • And/or bony parts of body:
    • Elbows?
    • Knees?
    • Ribs (chest)?
    • Scull (head)?
  • Widespread Nodules (hard lumps) under the skin or near eye that can be several 10-30mm in diameter which are bean-shaped, flattened and moveable?
  • Nodules do not feel tender?
  • Widespread itching leading to damaged (blisters, pustules, plaques) and infected skin?
  • New rash that has appeared or existing rash getting worst?
  • Skin changes losing its stretchiness and skin becoming thicker and scarring?
  • Elephant skin to lizard appearance skin?
  • Swollen or sticky eye or sensitive to light?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

Medical Emergency Condition

Do not wait, phone for an ambulance

Detailed Information

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