Studies on filariasis in Malaya: The clinical features of filariasis due to Wuchereria malayi

Abstract
Very few descriptions of the clinical features of filariasis (W. malayi) have been published. In this paper the literature has been reviewed and fresh data from Penang have been compared with the findings of previous authors. Evidence suggesting that two forms of W. malayi affect man in Malaya is mentioned, but the clinical features of the disease produced by the two forms do not differ significantly. The main clinical characteristics of W. malayi filariasis are described. Patients can probably be cured without permanent sequelae if they are treated in the earlier stages of infection. Lymph node enlargement and recurrent episodes of acute adeno-lymphangitis are therefore emphasized. Adeno-lymphangitis is often followed by elephantiasis in untreated persons. Both conditions affect mainly the lower limbs. Uro-genital and chylous manifestations are very rare in W. malayi filariasis. The course of W. malayi filariasis is tentatively outlined: it is variable and unpredictable. The subclinical phases are discussed and diagnostic procedures mentioned. The possible filarial aetiology of tropical eosinophilia is briefly reviewed in the light of recent findings in immigrant servicemen in Vietnam and the work of Danaraj and his colleagues in Singapore.

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