Elephantiasis is caused by obstruction of the lymphatic system, which results in the accumulation of a fluid called lymph in the affected areas.
The lymphatic system helps to protect the body against infection and disease.
It consists of a network of tubular channels (lymph vessels) that drain a thin watery fluid known as lymph from different areas of the body into the bloodstream. Obstruction of these vessels first results in lymphedema, and then can slowly progress to massive swelling and gross enlargement characteristic of elephantiasis.
Difficulty using arms, body and legs, lack of stamina and/or walking difficulties?
Repeated skin infections?
Hard, tight skin?
Folds developing in the skin?
Wart-like growths developing on the skin?
Fluid leaking through the skin?
Skin can be dry, pebbly appearance and may become ulcerated, pitted and darkened (hyperkeratosis) and/or and underlying tissues become abnormally thick?
Elephantiasis – limbs swell like ‘elephants’ forelegs size and colour (arms, breasts , genitals and/or legs?
Enlargement of the scrotum, and the penis may be retracted under skin which has become thickened, nonelastic, hot and painful?
The spermatic cords may thicken?
Affected individuals may experience pain and a burning sensation?
Female:
Tumorous mass covered by thickened and ulcerated skin may develop between the thighs and vulva and may be accompanied by enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) of the legs?
In some women the breasts may become enlarged?
Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:
Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice
Detailed Information
Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Elephantiasis in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).
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