Definition:
Elephantiasis is a medical condition characterized by some gross enlargement of a certain area of the body, mostly affecting the limbs as well as the external genitalia. Elephantiasis is primarily caused by an obstruction of the patient's lymphatic system, which often results in the buildup of fluid known as lymph in the particular affected areas.
As part of the immune system, the lymphatic system is designed to effectively protect the body against diseases and infections. This system consists of an intricate network of vessels, hence the obstruction of the tubular channels would naturally cause swelling and enlargement.
Diagnosis:
Blood tests are usually conducted to check the presence of microfilariae in the blood, as well as seralogic testing and chest x-rays.
Treatment:
Primary treatment of this medical condition involves a medical procedure called fluid shunting to reduce the swelling.
Symptoms and Signs:
I view of its name, elephantiasis denotes the massive swelling or enlargement of the lymphatic vessels. For patients who suffer acute infections, other symptoms would include fever, pain in an above the testicles, white urinary discharges, as well as swollen spleen and liver.
Causes:
The most common causes of elephantiasis are filariasis, a type of parasitic disease. Thos can be transmitted through sexual contact, streptococcal infections, leprosy, as well as leishmaniasis; repeated; and environmental factors such as exposure to certain types of chemicals.
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