Humans infected with some types of parasitic worms develop a condition called elephantiasis, which is characterised by swelling of the limbs. Which of the following would be the most likely cause of elephantiasis?
A) The infected human's immune system is fighting the worms.
B) The worm infection is causing a decrease in cardiac output.
C) The worms are blocking the lymph vessels.
D) More blood is flowing through precapillary sphincters.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elephantiasis is typically caused by nematodes or filarial worms that infect the lymphatic system, leading to blocked lymph vessels and accumulation of fluid in the limbs. The immune system does play a role in the response to these infections, but it is not the direct cause of the swelling. Decreased cardiac output (choice B) would not typically result in swelling of the limbs, and increased blood flow through precapillary sphincters (choice D) would not be a causal factor in elephantiasis.

Humans Infected with Some Types of Parasitic Worms Develop a Condition