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Filarial worms (filariasis)

This article uses the Dutch term ‘draadwormen’ to mean filarial worms: various tropical roundworms transmitted by biting mosquitoes or flies. Depending on the species, larvae and worms may occur under the skin, in lymph vessels or around the eye. Travel region, symptoms and species determine investigation and treatment. These are different from pinworms or Strongyloides.

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  • Filarial worms, or filariae, are various parasitic roundworms transmitted by biting insects.
  • Mosquitoes spread infections including lymphatic filariasis; blackflies can transmit onchocerciasis, and biting flies of the genus Chrysops can transmit Loa loa.
  • Symptoms depend on the species and tissue involved: itchy skin or lumps, temporary swellings, eye symptoms and chronic lymphatic swelling are possible patterns.
  • Many infections initially cause few symptoms. Past exposure remains relevant because adult worms can live for years.
  • Diagnosis and treatment differ greatly between species. A medicine suitable for one filarial infection may cause dangerous reactions when there are large numbers of larvae of another species.
  • Protect yourself from insect bites in risk areas and have relevant symptoms assessed by a doctor experienced in tropical medicine or infectious diseases.

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