Study of filariasis in Qualioubia governorate, Egypt

ABSTRACT

Seven hundred and fifty individuals were chosen randomly from five centers known to be endemic for filariasis in Qualubiya Governorate. These were Benha, Tokh, Qalyub, EI Khanka and Shebin EI-Kanater centers. Case sheet was designed to cover personal, present and past histories for filariasis. Thorough clinical examination was performed. Blood samples [taken at 10 p.m. -2 a.m.] were examined by wet preparation and counting chamber techinque. Microfilariae were detected in 68 cases [9.07%]. There was no statistical significance between positive cases as regards sex [p > 0.05] but there was high significance as regards age [p < 0.01]. The range of density of microfilariae in 1 ml venous blood was 10.7 - 34.18 [mean 22.5 /ml] and in 5 ml 47-176 [mean 111.5/5ml]. Fifty four cases [7.2%] showed clinical manifestations for filariasis [11 microfilaraemic and 43 amicrofilaraemic] in the form of limb itching, limb swelling, elephantiasis in one or more limb, hydrocele and chyluria. There was positive correlation between percentage of clinical cases and microfilaraemia [P<0.05] and no correlation between it and density of micro filariae [P<0.05]