Loiasis
Loiasis is a form of filariasis (see this term) caused by the parasitic worm Loa loa endemic to the forest and savannah regions of Central and Western Africa. Loiasis may either be asymptomatic or manifest as a large transient area of localized non-erythematous subcutaneous edema (Calabar swellings) adult worm migration through the sub-conjunctiva (”African eye worm”) and pruritus. Generalized itching hives muscle pains arthralgias fatigue and adult worms visibly migrating under the surface of the skin may be observed. Severe complications such as encephalopathy have been reported in highly infected individuals receiving ivermectin during mass drug administration programs for the control of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (see these terms).
Data from Orphanet are used to provide information on a disease's name, synonym(s), and overview.
Reference: Access aggregated data from Orphanet at Orphadata.
Orphadata: Free access data from Orphanet. © INSERM 1999. Available on http://www.orphadata.org. Data version April 2024
Newly diagnosed with
Loiasis?
Our RARE Concierge Services Guides are available to assist you by providing information, resources and connections as you navigate your rare disease journey.
Clinical Trials
For a list of clinical trials in this disease area, please click here.