Filaria is caused by

Appeared in: UPPSC 2022

Explanation

Wuchereria bancrofti is a filarial nematode (roundworm) that is the main cause of lymphatic filariasis.
It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
The adult worms live in the human lymphatic system, causing obstruction, inflammation, and lymphedema, which can lead to elephantiasis.
This organism is responsible for approximately 90% of all lymphatic filariasis cases worldwide.

Option A: Taenia saginata is the beef tapeworm. It causes an intestinal infection called taeniasis, not filariasis.
Option C: Ascaris lumbricoides is a large intestinal roundworm that causes ascariasis. Its life cycle primarily involves the intestines and lungs.
Option D: Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite, not a helminth (worm). It causes amoebiasis, also known as amoebic dysentery, which affects the large intestine.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agents of parasitic diseases, specifically Filariasis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing responsibility in diagnosing filariasis is ensuring proper timing for blood sample collection due to the nocturnal periodicity of microfilariae. Collecting blood between 10 PM and 2 AM is critical for accurate diagnosis.
Patient education is vital. Nurses must teach patients in endemic areas about mosquito bite prevention (using nets, repellents) and the importance of participating in Mass Drug Administration (MDA) programs to control the spread of the disease.
Nurses manage the chronic effects of filariasis, such as lymphedema, by teaching limb hygiene, skin care, and exercises to prevent secondary bacterial infections and improve lymphatic drainage.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology and parasitology.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Filaria'.
Recall the causative agents for common parasitic diseases.
Systematically evaluate each option:
A) Taenia saginata: Recall this is the beef tapeworm.
B) Wuchereria bancrofti: Recall this is a filarial worm.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Causative agents of parasitic diseases, specifically Filariasis.
Stem keywords: Filaria, caused by
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 289-291

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1860-1862

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 405-407

Practise the full UPPSC 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.