loiasis /lō·ī″əsis/ , a form of filariasis caused by the worm Loa loa. The worms may migrate for 10 to 15 years in subcutaneous tissue, producing localized inflammation known as Calabar swellings. Occasionally the migrating worms may be visible beneath the conjunctiva. The disease is acquired through the bite of an infected African deer fly. Treatment with diethylcarbamazine usually results in cure and may also be successful as prophylaxis. See also filariasis, onchocerciasis.
