Elephantesis - its definition, etiology,clinical manifestations, diagnostic evaluation, management and complications.

1. PRESENTED BY,
Mrs. Rijo Lijo
Lecturer
ELEPHANTIASIS
(LYMPHATIC FILARIASIS)

2. DEFINITION
 Elephantiasis is the enlargement and hardening of limbs or
body parts due to tissue swelling.
 A tropical, parasitic disease that affects the lymph nodes and
lymph vessels.

3. ETIOLOGY
It is caused by the filarial worm, which is transmitted from
human to human via the female mosquito when it takes a blood
meal.
MODE OF TRANSMISSION:
Mosquito

4. RISK FACTORS
The risk of exposure is greatest for people who:
• live long-term in tropical and subtropical regions.
• are regularly bitten by mosquitoes.
• live in unhygienic conditions.

5. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

6. CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
Swelling of the:
 Legs.
 Arms.
 Breasts.
 Genitals.

7. DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
 History collection.
 Physical examination.
 Blood examination:
A blood examination will be required to confirm a parasitic
infection.
 X-ray and Ultrasound:
to rule out other conditions that could be causing the swelling.

8. MANAGEMENT
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
Anti parasitic drugs that may be prescribed include:
 diethylcarbamazine (DEC).
 ivermectin (Mectizan).
 albendazole (Albenza).
 Doxycycline.

9. NURSING MANAGEMENT
 gently washing the swollen and damaged skin every day with soa
p and water.
 moisturizing the skin.
 elevating swollen limbs to improve the flow of fluid and lymph.
 disinfecting wounds to prevent secondary infections.
 exercising regularly to support the lymphatic system as directed
by a doctor.
 wrapping the limbs to prevent further swelling, as instructed by a
doctor.

10. COMPLICATIONS
 Disability.
 Secondary infections.
 Anxiety.
 Depression.

11. PREVENTION
 Prevention of mosquito.

12. At night:
• Sleep in an air-conditioned room.
• Sleep under a mosquito net.
Between dusk and dawn:
• Wear long sleeves and trousers.
• Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin.