A systematic review of the epidemiology of mansonelliasis
Document Type
Article
DOI
10.4314/ajid.v4i1.55085
Publication Date
2010
Abstract
Although infection with any of the three types of Mansonella species that affect humans is often asymptomatic, a large portion of the world’s population is at risk of this vectorborne filarial nematode infection.
No previous global review of the epidemiology of mansonelliasis has been conducted. A systematic review of the literature was conducted. Original research articles that provided population-based mansonelliasis prevalence rates were identified by searching the PubMed database using pre-defined eligibility criteria. Data from each of the forty-six included studies were extracted and compared. Mansonelliasis is a common infection in some parts of west and central Africa and Latin America, with significant variation in prevalence rates over small geographic spaces. The risk of infection increases with age and may be higher in males than females. Despite many similarities, the three agents that cause mansonelliasis have distinct biological, clinical, and epidemiological characteristics. Knowledge about mansonelliasis is important for making differential diagnoses, identifying the possible risks of co-infection with multiple filariases, and addressing the concerns of at-risk populations.
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2010, African Journals Online.
Recommended Citation
Downes BL, Jacobsen KH. A systematic review of the epidemiology of mansonelliasis. African Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2010; 4(1): 7–14.