Elephantasis - Research Paper Example

Despite it’s highly problematic nature, the disease remains prevalent in cultures throughout the world. Indeed, it’s noted that currently over 40 million people are disfigured and incapacitated by the disease ("Who lymphatic filariasis," 2011). This essay examines this disorder through a historical account, as well as symptoms used in diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, and associated data. Elephantiasis is recognized as having an extended history. While the term did not attain its etymology until the 17th century, historical account of elephantiasis are hundreds of years old in nearly all world cultures.

Indeed, Bhowmik & Routh (1993) note that eastern sculptures from 1500 B.C. contain depictions of the disorder. Greek history also contains indirect reference to the disorder as skiapodes were described as individuals from Ethiopia with enlarged hands and legs. Still, it wasn’t until 1673 when Doctor Benjamin Neisus from the University of Strasburg, Germany wrote about elephantiasis in an essay that the term first emerged as an officially recognized diagnosis (Bhowmik & Routh 1993). Although the exact motivation for the term is unknown, it’s assumed that the disorder’s name was chosen for its etymological adjacency as well as appearance to an elephant’s hide.

The understanding of the disease in terms of its causes and symptoms used in diagnosis has changed drastically since its primitive understandings. One of the prominent means of contacting elephantiasis is through contact with mosquitos. Specifically, microscopic parasitic worms, including Wuchereia bancrofti, B. timori, and Brugia malayi, all distribute elephantiasis; notably, all of these worms are transmitted through mosquito bites (Abster 2009). Still, the actual emergence of elephantiasis occurs as a complex reaction between the individual’s immune system and the Wolbachia bacteria within the worm.

The infected area is the individual’s lymphatic system. As the disease takes hold the host’s lymph flow is impeded and blood circulation is obstructed (Abster 2009). This lymphatic blockage is a primary cause of the enlarging of the individuals affected appendages. Specifically, it’s been noted that the, “lymphatic blockage can be due to recurrent attacks of a bacterial infection which causes inflammation of the lymphatic vessels (streptococcal lymphangitis)” ("Elephantiasis," 2009).

During the early stages of this process it’s necessary for medical professionals to recognize the dilation of the superficial vessels, as left untreated will result in continued swelling. In addition to these symptoms, the skin develops a pebbly appearance. The skin may also become dark and ulcerated. In addition, elephantiasis is frequently accompanied by a higher than average fever. There are a number of approaches to the treatment of elephantiasis. Largely treatment options depend on the region where the individual was afflicted with the disease, as sub-saharan African regions have implemented albendazole and ivermectin as a treatment mechanism.

Conversely, other world regions have combined albendazole with diethylcarbamazine (Abster 2009). Mosquito control is another prominent means of fighting this disease, particularly in high-risk area. In addition to these practices, a number of other approaches have been developed and shown varying degrees of effectiveness. In this context of understanding, it’s understood that the treatment options are often contingent of the extent and variety of the disease. In these regards,