clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

Loiasis is characterised by Calabar swellings, which occur transiently in the soft-tissue around joints as painless, swollen, hot, localised patches. These are due to toxins released by the adult worm and may last only a few hours or persist for weeks. They are more common during the summer months and may be preceded by numbness and tingling.

Urticaria, pruritus, lymphoedema and chorioretinitis may also occur.