Question

Which parasitic worm is responsible for causing lymphatic filariasis?

• A. $ \text{Wuchereria bancrofti} $
• B. $ \text{Brugia malayi} $
• C. $ \text{Onchocerca volvulus} $
• D. $ \text{Ancylostoma duodenale} $

Hint:

Wuchereria bancrofti is the primary causative organism for lymphatic filariasis — focus on mosquito-borne helminths for GPAT.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Wuchereria bancrofti is a parasitic filarial nematode that causes lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis. - It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes (e.g., Culex, Anopheles, Aedes).

The adult worms live in the lymphatic system and block lymphatic vessels, causing severe swelling, especially in the legs, genitals, and breasts.
The disease is characterized by lymphedema, chronic inflammation, and gross enlargement of affected body parts.

Other options:

(B) Brugia malayi — Also causes lymphatic filariasis but is less prevalent than W. bancrofti. 
(C) Onchocerca volvulus — Causes onchocerciasis or “river blindness”. 
(D) Ancylostoma duodenale — A hookworm causing iron-deficiency anemia, not filariasis.