RESUMO
The pathological manifestations of parasitization by Wucheria bancrofti appear to result from a combination of three causes namely: (a) an allergic reaction to the parasite evidenced by oedema, urticaria and itching of the skin with occasionally arthritis and synovitis. (b) invasion of the oedematous and devitalized tissues by pathogenic micro-organisms. (c) lymphatic obstruction caused by the parasite itself and partly by a reactive fibrosis. Treatment by streptococcal vaccines is useful but symptoms recur sooner or later. Treatment of the allergic symptoms by desensitization with extracts of Dirofilaria immitis may be helpful. Treatment by a combination of vaccines and desensitizing extracts promises to be of value in amelioration of symptoms, prevention of attacks and prevention of elephantiasis (Summary)
