Definition

• disease group caused by filariae that

affects humans and animals (ie,
nematode parasites of the family
Filariidae).
• The World Health Organization
(WHO) has identified lymphatic
filariasis as a major cause of
disability worldwide, with an
estimated 40 million individuals
affected by the disfiguring features
of the disease
 Causative Agent
1. Wuchereria bancrofti
2. Brugia malayi
3. Brugia timori

* The larval form of the parasite transmits the disease to

humans by the bite of a mosquito.
Pathophysiology
 Pathophysiology
• The filarial life cycle, like that of all nematodes, consists of
5 developmental (larval) stages in a vertebral host and an
arthropod intermediate host and vector. Adult female worms
produce thousands of first-stage larvae, or microfilariae,
which are ingested by a feeding insect vector. Some
microfilariae have a unique daily circadian periodicity in the
peripheral circulation. The arthropod vectors (mosquitoes
and flies) also have a circadian rhythm in which they obtain
blood meals. The highest concentration of microfilariae
usually occurs when the local vector is feeding most
actively.
Signs and Symptoms
 Treatment
A. Medical Treatment
• Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) is the drug of choice in the
United States. The drug kills the microfilariae and
some of the adult worms. DEC has been used world-
wide for more than 50 years.

• Side effects are in general limited and depend on the

number of microfilariae in the blood. The most
common side effects are dizziness, nausea, fever,
headache, or pain in muscles or joints.
 Treatment
B. Nursing Intervention
1. Monitor client’s vital signs, particularly the temperature.
2. Assess skin color and integrity. Note for wounds, bleeding or any skin
changes.
3. Assess for any discomfort and pain.
4. Provide wound care.
5. Elevate affected body area to reduce swelling.
6. Administer medications if ordered and discuss them to the client.
7. Provide support to perform basic activities.
8. Encourage range of motion and simple exercises of the affected extremities
to stimulate lymphatic flow.
9. Recognize client’s self-esteem needs.
10. Provide health teaching and information for continuity of care.
Complications
Infections. Possible infections that can
result from lymphedema include a
serious bacterial infection of the skin
(cellulitis) and an infection of the lymph
vessels (lymphangitis). The smallest
injury to your arm or leg can be an entry
point for infection.

Lymphangiosarcoma. This rare form of

soft tissue cancer can result from the
most-severe cases of untreated
lymphedema. Possible signs of
lymphangiosarcoma include blue-red or
purple marks on the skin.