Recurrence of microfilaraemia after triple-drug therapy for lymphatic filariasis in Samoa: Recrudescence or reinfection?

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Contrasting evidence is emerging on the long-term effectiveness of triple-drug therapy for elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) in the Pacific region. We evaluated the effectiveness of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine and albendazole (IDA) for sustained clearance of microfilariae (Mf) in Samoa.

Methods

We enrolled two cohorts of Mf-positive participants. Cohort A were Mf-positive participants from 2018, who received directly observed triple-drug therapy in 2019 and were retested and retreated in 2023 and 2024. Cohort B were Mf-positive and treated in 2023 and retested in 2024. Participants were tested for LF antigen and Mf.

Results

In Cohort A, eight of the 14 participants from 2018/2019 were recruited in 2023; six were Mf-positive. In 2024, six participa

SUBMITTER: Mayfield HJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11873681 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature