What is Elephantiasis?

Elephantiasis is a condition of the body that is best known for its visual effect on the body. The visual aspect of Elephantiasis is that the body's limbs and external genital organs can become grotesquely enlarged. While it may be commonly thought that the name originates from the fact that the enlarged legs, for instance, can resemble those of an elephant, it seems that actually "Elephantiasis" previously referred to a type of leprosy where the skin takes on the appearance of an elephant's hide. Elephantiasis is the result of the accumulation of fluid called lymph which is caused by blockage of the lymphatic system.

The most common form of Elephantiasis is caused by a parasitic disease that is known as lymphatic filariasis. This type of Elephantiasis is known as "true" Elephantiasis and has the presence of a parasitic worm which is transmitted by mosquitoes. This type of Elephantiasis is most common in tropical regions and Africa. There is also a nonfilarial Elephantiasis which is thought to be caused by irritant soils, such as those with high alkali metals and areas that have been associated with volcanic activity. Some of these countries include: Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia.

The obstruction in the lymphatic system leads to the swelling in the lower torso, typically in the legs and genitals. In the cases of "true" Elephantiasis caused by the parasite, approximately 10% of women can be affected by swollen limbs and 50% of men can suffer from the swollen genitals.

Medical experts think that they may be on track to eliminate Elephantiasis by the year 2020. It is estimated that 6.6 million children have been prevented from infection. Until then, treatment varies depending on the location. Various anti-parasitic drugs are being used to try to treat Elephantiasis as well as hygiene methods being taught to keep areas clean. Hopes are that a vaccine may be developed in the future.

"Elephantiasis". WebMD. < http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/elephantiasis> 14 August 2010.

"Elephantiasis". Wikepedia. < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephantiasis> 14 August 2010.