Bancroftian filariasis in the lower Imo River Basin, Nigeria

Abstract

Wuchereria bancrofti is present in the Lower Imo River Basin with a prevalence of 6.7%. Microfilaraemia was higher among older than younger individuals and there was no significant difference in prevalence between sexes. Microfilarial intensities varied significantly between sexes and also between age groups. On the overall, prevalence of clinical filariasis was higher than prevalence of microfilaraemia. Clinical manifestations related to W. bancrofti were hydrocele, limb and scrotal elephantiasis in that order of importance. Limb elephantiasis was higher among females than among males. Chyluria was not found in the Lower Imo River Basin study population.



AJAZEB Vol. 6 2004: pp. 61-65