THE EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF FILARIASIS AND CERTAIN SUGGESTIONS RELATIVE TO CAUSE OF SYMPTOMS

Abstract

100 cases of early filariasis occurring in soldiers evacuated from the Southwest Pacific areas are analyzed for their symptomatology and clinical course. The average age of the group was 26.6 yrs., the av. time spent in endemic areas prior to the development of symptoms of filariasis was 133/10 months. The principle symptoms were lymphadenitis, scrotal swelling, pain in testicles, generalized aching, pains, nausea and anorexia. Physical findings were minimal but lymphadenopathy occurred in 92% of all cases and funiculitis in 77%. Skin tests done with antigens prepared from the dog and horse filariae were positive in 88% of all cases. The clinical course of these cases was favorable for complete recovery.