Filariasis is also called elephantiasis because

Options

A. It is caused by Ascaris
B. It is caused by Elephant
C. It is caused by Entamoeba
D. Body parts swell

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Filariasis:**
- Filariasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms, specifically the species Wuchereria bancrofti, which is transmitted through mosquito bites.

2. **Symptoms of Filariasis:**
- The disease is characterized by severe swelling in various body parts, particularly the legs, arms, and genital areas. This swelling occurs due to the blockage of lymphatic vessels by the adult worms.

3. **Connection to Elephantiasis:**
- The term "elephantiasis" is derived from the Greek word "elephas," meaning elephant. The swelling caused by filariasis can lead to thickening and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues, giving the affected body parts a resemblance to the skin of an elephant.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, filariasis is commonly referred to as elephantiasis because of the significant swelling of body parts, particularly the legs, which resembles the appearance of an elephant's limb.

**Final Answer:**
Filariasis is also called elephantiasis because it causes swelling of body parts, particularly the legs, which resembles the limbs of an elephant.

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