Wuchereria bancrofti: Life Cycle and Symptoms

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Questions and Answers

A researcher aims to study the migratory behavior of microfilariae in vivo. Which method would provide the most direct and least invasive means of observing their movement?

Performing serial skin biopsies at different locations and times to track the presence of microfilariae.
Using high-resolution ultrasound imaging to visualize the lymphatic vessels and track microfilariae movement.
Employing real-time intravital microscopy with fluorescently labeled microfilariae to directly observe their migration in lymphatic and blood vessels. (correct)
Analyzing thick blood smears collected at various intervals to infer the migratory patterns of microfilariae.

Following treatment with diethylcarbamazine (DEC), a patient still exhibits lymphatic swelling and discomfort. Which of the following best explains this continued symptomatology?

DEC resistance has developed in the microfilariae, rendering the drug ineffective.
DEC only targets microfilariae and does not affect the adult worms causing the lymphatic blockage. (correct)
The patient has developed an allergic reaction to DEC, exacerbating the lymphatic inflammation.
DEC stimulates the immune system, leading to a temporary increase in lymphatic response.

In a region with endemic Wuchereria bancrofti, public health officials are evaluating vector control strategies. Which approach would most effectively reduce disease transmission?

Providing all residents with diethylcarbamazine (DEC) to eliminate microfilariae in the human reservoir.
Improving sanitation and hygiene practices to prevent human exposure to filariform larvae.
Implementing mosquito control measures targeting *Culex* mosquitoes to reduce the vector population and interrupt the parasite’s life cycle. (correct)
Administering prophylactic antibiotics to the human population to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

A patient with chronic lymphatic filariasis presents with significant lymphedema and frequent secondary bacterial infections. Which of the following management strategies would be most beneficial for this patient?

Implementing a comprehensive program of hygiene, skin care, and lymphedema management to prevent secondary infections and improve lymphatic drainage. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Researchers are investigating factors contributing to the nocturnal periodicity of microfilariae. Which hypothesis is most likely to explain this phenomenon?

The nocturnal periodicity ensures that microfilariae are present in the peripheral blood when the mosquito vector is most active, enhancing transmission efficiency. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Wuchereria bancrofti, what is the principal reason that makes accurate diagnosis challenging in the early stages of infection, before the onset of overt clinical signs like elephantiasis?

Microfilariae concentrations in peripheral blood are too low to detect by conventional diagnostic methods during the prepatent period. (A) Signup and view all the answers

If a new drug was developed that effectively targeted and killed adult Wuchereria bancrofti worms, which of the following outcomes would be the most significant long-term benefit to public health in endemic regions?

Prevention of new cases of lymphatic damage and subsequent development of elephantiasis and hydrocele. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What specific adaptation allows Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae to efficiently navigate the circulatory and lymphatic systems, aiding in their survival and transmission?

A flexible, sheathed structure that protects them from the host's immune response and allows them to move actively through lymph and blood channels. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is designing a study to evaluate the efficacy of a novel mosquito repellent in preventing Wuchereria bancrofti transmission. Which study design would provide the most robust and ethical assessment?

Conducting a randomized controlled trial in an endemic area, comparing the incidence of new infections in a group using the repellent versus a control group using a placebo, while ensuring access to diagnostics and treatment for all participants. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Culex mosquito's biology most significantly contributes to its role as an effective vector for Wuchereria bancrofti?

Its feeding preference for humans, ensuring frequent contact with the definitive host. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Wuchereria bancrofti definitive host

Humans are the definitive host.

Wuchereria bancrofti vector

Culex mosquitoes serve as the vector, transmitting infective larvae.