The treatment of filarial elephantiasis of the leg by bandaging

Knott, James

doi:10.1016/s0035-9203(38)90071-9

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 1 publication

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…Health issues and rehabilitation maintenance require successful rehabilitation [5]. Tight bandaging effectively eradicates lymphoedema in filarial elephantiasis of the leg, resulting in immediate relief and the cessation of repeated lymphangitis episodes [10].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Journey to an Improved Quality of Life: Filarial Lymphoedema and Physiotherapy Rehabilitation

Dangare,

Fating

2023

Cureus

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Filarial lymphoedema is a tropical parasitic worm illness caused mostly by Wuchereria bancrofti. This disease impacts millions of individuals in endemic areas, causing significant impairment and financial discomfort. Elephantiasis is a chronic lymphatic drainage failure causing swelling in the legs and genitalia. It is a chronic condition characterized by the buildup of lymphatic water, causing pain and reduced limb activity. Genetic abnormalities, trauma, surgery, infection, or cancer cause the disease. Treatment options include antiparasitic drugs, surgical interventions, and nonsurgical interventions like compression therapy. Lymphatic system transplantation, liposuction, and vascularized lymph node transfer are surgical procedures that restore lymphatic circulation and reduce swelling, potentially lifesaving for individuals with lymphedema who have not responded well to conservative treatment. The present case report concerns a 30-year-old male with a history of chronic lower leg elephantiasis for 17 years. Duplex color Doppler revealed a large, well-defined collection in the right foot with a heterogeneous group with few solid cystic components suggestive of a solid cystic mass lesion. MRI showed diffuse subcutaneous edema in the dorsum, medial, and lateral aspect of the foot with the medial, lateral, and posterior aspect of the leg appearing hyperintense on T2/proton density spectral attenuated inversion recovery (PDSPAIR), and hypointense on T1. Dilated lymphatic channels were seen coursing through in the cutaneous plane. The patient underwent a comprehensive surgical procedure that included excision of fibrotic tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue, followed by lymph node transfer. Following the surgeon's clearance, a targeted early physiotherapy intervention could normalize functional potencies and help in recovery. Post-treatment changes such as reduction in lymphoedema, strength, and mobility, which are essential for patients with the activity of daily living, were observed.

show abstract

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%