Validation of reports of nodules dissolution after repeated ivermectin treatment of onchocerciasis in southeastern Nigeria

East African Medical Journal
C C UkagaB E Nwoke

Abstract

To ascertain the validity of the claims by villagers in endemic communities in southeastern Nigeria that repeated ivermectin treatment cause disappearance or dissolution of onchocercal nodules. From baseline epidemiological data, four communities (Amuro, Aku, Nzerem Ikpem and Awuchinimo) were randomly chosen as the study sites. A total of 324 adults (hitherto had onchocercal nodules), aged > or = 20 years from these communities were enlisted in the study. After clinical examination, each of the villager was interviewed with structured, pre-tested questionnaire. Also personal and focus group discussion was held. Sixty nine (21.30%) respondents; 16.67% from Amuro, 32.26% from Aku, 19.05% from Nzerem Ikpem and 15% from Awuchnimo claimed that their nodules gradually dissolved or disappeared. A significant (p < 0.05) proportion (82.61%) attributed this phenomenon to repeated doses of ivermectin; 4.35% claimed it was not due to ivermectin therapy while 13.04% were not sure of the cause. The results have opened challenges in our understanding of the role of ivermectin therapy in endemic communities and calls for further studies of nodule dissolution in other onchocerciasis endemic communities.

Citations

Oct 10, 2014·PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases·Jesse B Bump
Sep 24, 2004·International Journal of Environmental Health Research·Ikechukwu DozieBertram Nwoke

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