Filariasis

1. (Zoöl., Med.) the presence of filariae within the body of an organism; infection with filariae. It is mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
2. (Med.) a disease caused by nematodes in the blood or tissues of the body causing blockage of lymphatic vessels. Death of the adult worms may lead to inflammation and permanent fibrosis; the condition may lead to serious symptoms, such as elephantiasis or blindness. See river blindness