A model for self-management of chronic filarial lymphoedema with acute dermato-lymphangio-adenitis.

Secondary lymphoedema due to filariasis is a leading cause of morbidity in India. We present a case of a 54-year-old female with lymphatic filariasis for 18 years, with three to four episodes of acute dermato-lymphangio-adenitis (ADLA) every year. The patient had voluntarily restricted social interaction and community participation. A combination of interventions provided in 17 physiotherapy sessions over a period of 20 days showed notable improvement, by reducing limb volume and ADLA episodes and by improving limb shape, functional capacity and quality of life. Interventions included aerobic exercise, decongestion therapy with faradism under pressure and exercises with elevation. This gain was maintained throughout the 8 months of the pandemic. Patient education and counselling along with home programme of self-bandaging and self-limb hygiene played a major role in the recovery of the patient. Self-reliance in management was important because of the pandemic, which restricted the patient from attending the outpatient department.

Delayed onset neuropathy along with recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy due to organophosphate poisoning and the role of physiotherapy rehabilitation.

Organophosphorus poisoning is a major global cause of health problems and the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the developing countries. In this, the inhibition of acetyl-choline esterase and neurotoxic esterase along with nicotinic receptor involvement produces three well-identified and documented clinical phases: The initial cholinergic phase, which is a medical emergency often requiring management in an intensive care unit; the intermediate syndrome, during which prolonged ventilator care is necessary; and finally delayed neurotoxicity. Vocal cord paralysis is rare and leads to aphonia. Role of physiotherapy rehabilitation is substantial in all three stages and aims at early weaning off from mechanical ventilator until the functional independence and community integration of the patient.