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Elephantiasis
I did my report on filariasis, which is
more commonly known as elephantiasis.
Elephantiasis is the late phase of filariasis. Filariasis
is a tropical mosquito born parasitic disease
causing obstruction of the lymph vessels. In some
people the presence of the worm causes a tissue
reaction that causes the lymph flow to be blocked.
This blockage produces lymphedema which is a
swelling and can eventually lead to a tremendous
enlargement of an extremity or organ. When
elephantiasis follows repeated infection, parts of
the body -- particularly the legs -- become grossly
enlarged and the surrounding skin hardens and
ulcerates. Certain types of elephantiasis can be
treated surgically. Elephantiasis of the legs is
Approximate words: 350
Approximate pages: 2
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