Strange Medical Conditions You Won’t Believe Are Real

Lymphatic Filariasis And Elephantiasis

Lymphatic Filariasis is a parasitic infection that impairs the lymphatic system, causing abnormal growth of body parts, pain, and disability. The infection is caused when parasites are transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Most cases of lymphatic filariasis show no physical signs whatsoever. However, the infection will cause damage to the patient’s lymphatic system, kidneys, and may alter their immune system. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to lymphedema - the swelling of tissue - or elephantiasis, which is the thickening of the skin and tissue on the limbs.

Lymphatic filariasis and elephantiasis can both be combated by stopping the spreading of infection through preventative chemotherapy treatments.