River blindness

Definition

River blindness, also known as onchocerciasis, is a parasitic disease caused by the filarial worm Onchocerca volvulus. It is transmitted through the bites of infected blackflies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The primary symptom of river blindness is severe itching and skin rashes, potentially leading to long-term skin damage.
2. The microbial agent responsible is the nematode Onchocerca volvulus.
3. Ivermectin is the primary drug used for treatment and control of river blindness.
4. The disease can lead to visual impairment or permanent blindness due to microfilariae invading ocular tissues.
5. Control efforts often involve mass drug administration (MDA) programs targeting affected communities.

Review Questions

• What microorganism causes river blindness?
• Which drug is primarily used to treat and control river blindness?
• How does river blindness lead to visual impairment?

Related terms

Ivermectin: An antiparasitic medication used to treat various parasitic infections including river blindness.

Onchocerca volvulus: A parasitic nematode that causes onchocerciasis or river blindness.

Microfilariae: Larval stage of filarial worms that circulate in the bloodstream or migrate through tissues.