"Evaluating Treatment Outcomes: Comparative Analysis of Hematological and Immunological Profiles in Filarial Patients from Visakhapatnam and East Godavari Districts, Andhra Pradesh"

Abstract

Background: Filarial diseases, particularly lymphatic filariasis (LF), pose significant public health challenges in tropical regions, including Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh, where Wuchereria bancrofti is predominantly responsible for infection. This study aims to assess the haematological and immunological changes in filarial patients before and after treatment to better understand the disease dynamics and treatment efficacy.

Methods: A hospital-based survey was conducted from June 2022 to June 2023, examining fever cases and filarial infections. Haematological parameters like lymphocyte and eosinophil counts, and immunological markers including immunoglobulin levels and lymphocyte subsets were analysed and, compared before and after filarial drug treatment.

Results: The study revealed significant haematological disruptions and elevated eosinophilia indicative of parasitic infections. Post-treatment, significant reductions in IgA, IgG, and IgM levels were observed, along with a notable decrease in the CD4/CD8 ratio, suggesting an effective modulation of the immune response. The majority of haematological and biochemical parameters remained within normal ranges, indicating a targeted immune response rather than generalized systemic effects.

Conclusion: The study underscores the persistent public health burden of lymphatic filariasis in endemic regions of Andhra Pradesh and highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of haematological and immunological profiles to enhance treatment strategies. The results advocate for sustained research and intervention efforts to mitigate the impact of filarial diseases on affected communities.