CALABAR SWELLING Meaning and
Definition
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Calabar swelling, also known as Calabar edema or Loa loa swelling, is a medical condition characterized by localized swelling or inflammation of the skin and underlying tissues. It is named after Calabar, a city in Nigeria, where the condition was first identified.
Calabar swelling is typically caused by the presence of Loa loa, a parasitic worm also known as the African eye worm. These worms are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected deer flies or mango flies. Once inside the human body, the worms migrate through the bloodstream, ultimately reaching the subcutaneous tissues. The presence of the worms triggers an immune response, resulting in the development of Calabar swelling.
The swelling generally occurs in the extremities, such as the limbs, and is often accompanied by itching, pain, and redness. The affected areas may appear as localized lumps or nodules, which can vary in size and shape. In some cases, the swelling may be transient and resolve on its own, while in others, it may persist for weeks or months.
Treatment for Calabar swelling involves the administration of antiparasitic medications, such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC), which is effective in killing the Loa loa worms. In severe cases, surgical removal of the worms may be necessary.
Overall, Calabar swelling is a specific type of localized swelling caused by the presence of the Loa loa parasite. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms.
Common Misspellings for CALABAR SWELLING
- xalabar swelling
- valabar swelling
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- czlabar swelling
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- cqlabar swelling
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- calagar swelling
- calabzr swelling
Etymology of CALABAR SWELLING
The term "Calabar swelling" was coined based on the geographical location where it was first identified, as well as the nature of the swelling itself.
The word "Calabar" refers to the city of Calabar, which is located in southeastern Nigeria. In the 19th century, European explorers and colonial administrators encountered a peculiar type of swelling in the region, and they named it after the city.
The "swelling" part of the term refers to the medical symptom that occurs in cases of Calabar swelling. It is characterized by localized swelling or edema, typically accompanied by severe pain, itching, and redness. These symptoms are caused by the infiltration of a parasite known as the Loa loa worm, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected flies.
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