Lymphatic Filariasis: A Systematic Review on Morbidity and Its Repercussions in Countries in the Americas.

Zulma M Medeiros,Amanda V B Vieira,Amanda T Xavier,Cristine V Bonfim,Gilberto S N Bezerra,Maria De Fátima C Lopes,Ana M Aguiar-Santos

doi:10.3390/ijerph19010316

Abstract

The Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) is a program that aims to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2030. The GPELF strategy is based on interrupting transmission using mass drug administration (MDA) and, in parallel, managing morbidity cases. However, it has been seen that there is a shortage of research in the literature and public policies regarding this last pillar. In this study, we reviewed the literature and available information regarding the burden of filarial morbidity. In addition, we identified that in the Americas, the implementation of structured services with regard to morbidity assistance in the Americas was scarce. We formed a review that aimed to assess the pathogenesis, epidemiology, repercussions, and treatment of filarial morbidity in countries in the Americas where lymphatic filariasis is endemic. Structured searches were carried out on PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, and Web of Science databases without time and language restrictions. Three reviewers evaluated the 2150 studies and performed data extraction, and quality assessment by assigning scores to the studies found. The current literature and available information on the burden of filarial morbidity, as well as the implementation of structured services with regard to morbidity assistance in the Americas, were all found to be scarce. Now that this knowledge gap has been identified, both health services and researchers need to seek the implementation and enhancement of the maintenance of GPELF strategies that relate to the morbidity pillar.

Highlights

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Brugia malayi, Brugia timori, and Wuchereria bancrofti and over 90% of cases are caused by the last
Valid and reliable information regarding the number of people affected in each of the most frequent clinical expressions, the treatment approach instituted, the structure of care services offered, responses to treatments, disability and the impact of disease, and patient and community needs are important in the assessment and planning in endemic areas to ensure the best management for the prevention and alleviation of lymphatic filariasis-related disability
We sought to analyze publications related to the handling of filarial morbidity, male urogenital manifestations and lymphoedema, as the most frequent sequelae observed in endemic areas

Summary

Introduction

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Brugia malayi, Brugia timori, and Wuchereria bancrofti and over 90% of cases are caused by the last. These parasites are transmitted via a number of different mosquito hosts, which vary geographically. LF is considered endemic in 72 countries, and Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Guyana, and. Haiti are the four remaining countries in the Americas where it is considered endemic [1]. In 2000, the WHO launched the Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) with the aim of eliminating LF by 2030. The strategy of the GPELF is based

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