Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents for follow-up of incidental laboratory finding of Mansonella perstans microfilariae identified on peripheral blood smear. Patient is currently asymptomatic, denying fever, pruritus, arthralgia, abdominal pain, or subcutaneous swellings. No history of recent travel to endemic regions in sub-Saharan Africa or South America reported in the last 6 months.
Clinical Examination Findings
General: Patient appears well, in no acute distress. HEENT: No conjunctival injection or chemosis. Skin: No Calabar-like swellings, rashes, or subcutaneous nodules noted. Lymphatic: No generalized lymphadenopathy. Abdomen: Soft, non-tender, non-distended; no hepatosplenomegaly palpated. Cardiovascular/Respiratory: Regular rate and rhythm, lungs clear to auscultation.
Treatment Protocol
Given the asymptomatic nature of the infection and the low pathogenicity of M. perstans, a "watchful waiting" approach is recommended. No immediate anthelmintic therapy (e.g., Diethylcarbamazine) is indicated at this time. Routine monitoring of complete blood count (CBC) with differential to assess for eosinophilia. Advise patient to return if symptoms develop.