Association between altered cognition and Loa loa microfilaremia: First evidence from a cross-sectional study in a rural area of the Republic of Congo.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Individuals with high Loa loa microfilarial densities are at risk of developing severe encephalopathy after administration of antiparasitic drugs. Apart from this finding, loiasis is considered benign with no effect on brain function. However, recent epidemiological data suggest an increased mortality and morbidity in L. loa infected individuals, underscoring the importance of studies on the possible neurological morbidity associated with loiasis.

Methodology

Using MoCA tests and neurological ultrasounds, we conducted a cross-sectional study to assess cognitive alteration in a population living in a rural area endemic for loiasis in the Republic of Congo. Fifty individuals with high microfilarial densities (MFD) were matched on sex, age and residency with 50 indiv

SUBMITTER: Checkouri T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10313009 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature