What is lymphatic filariasis (LF)?
Lymphatic filariasis (LF), commonly known as elephantiasis, is a disfiguring, disabling disease, usually acquired in childhood. In the early stages, there are no symptoms.Although there are no outward symptoms, the lymphatic system is damaged. This stage can last for several years.Infected persons sustain the transmission of the disease. The long term physical consequences are painful, swollen limbs (lymphoedema or elephantiasis). Everyday work becomes difficult due to frequent infections.Hydrocele in males is also common in endemic areas.