The upcoming discussion will update you about the difference between classical and occult filariasis.
Difference # Classical Filariasis:
i. Cause:
Growing worms and adults.
ii. Basic lesions:
An acute inflammation followed by an epitheloid granuloma surrounding the adult worm of W. bancrofti.
iii. Organs concerned:
Lymphatic system (i.e., lymph vessel and lymph node)
iv. Microfilaria:
Present in peripheral blood circulation.
v. Therapeutic response:
No response to any drug.
vi. Serological test (complement fixation test):
Not so sensitive.
Difference # Occult Filariasis:
i. Cause:
Microfilariae.
ii. Basic lesions:
An eosinophilic granuloma (allergic reaction).
iii. Organs concerned:
Lymphatic system including lung, liver, spleen etc.
iv. Microfilaria:
Not in peripheral blood but found in affected tissues.
v. Therapeutic response:
Responds to microfilaricidal drug.
vi. Serological test (complement fixation test):
Highly sensitive.