Summary
Dracunculiasis is caused by the Dracunculus medinensis parasite, also called Guinea worm. Infection occurs after drinking water from wells with no coping that contain the carrier, a microscopic Crustacea of the Cyclops genus. The adult worm protrudes from a skin lesion usually on the lower limbs, approximately 12 to 15 months after infection. Infectious complications (arthritis, abscess, tetanos) may be associated with the infection. The World Health Organisation (WHO) program, which aimed to eradicate of this disease before the year 2000, seems to be successful. There is no alternate treatment but to pull the worm out by rolling it around a small stick. *Author: L. Paris, M.D. (February 2005)*.
