Mansonellosis

[Julene]

Mansonellosis refers to diseases caused by Mansonella perstans, M. ozzardi, and M. streptocerca. Transmission is by biting midges or blackflies. Infections are often asymptomatic, but symptoms can occur. The diagnosis of M. perstans and M. ozzardi is confirmed by identifying microfilariae in blood smears; neither species displays significant periodicity so blood can be drawn any time. The diagnosis of M. streptocerca is based on identifying microfilariae in skin snips or biopsies. Treatment depends on the infecting Mansonella species.
(See also Approach to Parasitic Infections and Overview of Filarial Nematode Infections.)