Loa loa, commonly known as the African eye worm, is a filarial parasite transmitted by the bite of deer flies, causing loiasis. The adult worms migrate through subcutaneous tissues, often crossing the eye, leading to visible worms under the skin or in the conjunctiva. While many infected individuals may not experience severe symptoms, loiasis can cause itching, swelling (often around the joints), and eye discomfort. In rare cases, the parasite may cause complications affecting the heart, kidneys, or lungs.
Removing Loa loa from the body through antiparasitic treatment, such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC), helps eliminate the adult worms and reduce symptoms like swelling and itching. Successful treatment prevents complications and improves comfort and mobility. Controlling the spread of loiasis requires a combination of medical treatment for those infected and vector control efforts to reduce exposure to deer flies. This reduces the overall transmission of the parasite, leading to improved community health and reducing the social stigma associated with visible worm infections.
