10 Elephantiasis Symptoms
Article Sources
- 1. 'Elephantiasis.' Healthdirect, Healthdirect Australia, www.healthdirect.gov.au/elephantiasis
- 2. 'Elephantiasis.' NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders), 21 Nov. 2019, rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/elephantiasis/
- 3. Bano, Shahina, et al. 'Elephantiasis Neuromatosa of the Lower Limb in a Patient with Neurofibromatosis Type-1: A Case Report with Imaging Findings.' Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences, Medknow Publications, Jan. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2964801/
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Elephantiasis is characterized by enlarged limbs, swollen genitals and thickened skin with deep skin folds. This debilitating condition affects 40 million people worldwide, mainly within poorer countries with unsanitary conditions and limited access to health care.1‘Elephantiasis.’ Healthdirect, Healthdirect Australia, www.healthdirect.gov.au/elephantiasis
Elephantiasis is caused by an obstruction in the lymphatic system. The lymph glands drain excess fluid from the body, and if they're not functioning at an optimal level, an accumulation of fluids occurs. This may lead to lymphedema and eventually progress into elephantiasis if not addressed. The most common cause of blockages is a parasitic disease spread via mosquito bites.
Swelling of the Legs
People who have elephantiasis commonly experience swelling of the legs. The body's lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from blood vessels, so any damage to the lymphatic network may cause the legs to become enlarged.
The lymphatic vessels are found throughout the body, but the more mobile areas have chains of lymph nodes. Those with elephantiasis typically experience more swelling in the lower extremities, one of the body's most active areas. The swelling tends to start off as mild edema and transition to elephantiasis if it's not dealt with by a health care practitioner.
