filariasis

[fil-uh-rahy-uh-sis]

noun

1. infection by filarial worms in the blood and lymph channels, lymph glands, and other tissues, the various species causing skin swellings, blindness, or elephantiasis if untreated.

filariasis

/ ˌfɪləˈraɪəsɪs, fɪˌlɛərɪˈeɪsɪs /

noun

1. a disease common in tropical and subtropical countries resulting from infestation of the lymphatic system with the nematode worms Wuchereria bancrofti or Brugia malayi , transmitted by mosquitoes: characterized by inflammation and obstruction of the lymphatic vessels See also elephantiasis

filariasis

1. Any of various infections, often of the skin, eyes, and lymph nodes, caused by infestation of tissue with filariae.

Word History and Origins

Origin of filariasis¹

First recorded in 1875–80; filar(ia) + -iasis

Word History and Origins

Origin of filariasis¹

C19: from New Latin; see _filaria

Example Sentences

Using education and simple, low-cost methods, the Carter Center’s health initiatives addressed “neglected tropical diseases”: lymphatic filariasis, trachoma, schistosomiasis and malaria.

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The country has managed to eliminate malaria, polio, leprosy, the tropical parasitic disease filariasis commonly known as elephantiasis, and most other vaccine-preventable diseases.

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The experiment involved testing a vaccine for lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes that affects tens of millions of people and can cause severe disability.

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But he and others are investigating whether monkeys carry parasites, such as the nematodes that cause filariasis, or viruses such as Zika and chikungunya.

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He was recognized by the World Health Organization for his work in the Cook Islands helping stamp out the tropical disease lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis.

Read more on Washington Times