Common Name(s):
African Eye Worm
Alternative Names & Classifications:
Loiasis (CLINICAL)
Description
Adult Loa loa worms migrate continuously through the host's subcutaneous tissues and subconjunctiva, causing localized, transient allergic swellings. Unlike other filarial infections, it does not typically cause severe permanent tissue damage or blindness. It is endemic specifically to the dense rainforest regions of West and Central Africa.