Calabar swellings

Calabar swellings are localized infections where the parasite Loa Loa is secreting toxins. It is an immune reaction caused when the worms that reside in the subcutaneous tissue are injured by a minor or major force to the skin. The insides of the worm are then exposed to the immune system, and a powerful reaction ensues. Normally, the immune system does not detect the helminth until it is injured.

See also

• Loiasis

External links

• http://www.stanford.edu/class/humbio103/ParaSites2004/Loiasis/dx.htm
• http://www.stanford.edu/class/humbio103/ParaSites2004/Loiasis/symptoms.htm - Pictures of Calabar swellings