[Elephantiasis soon eliminated? New therapeutic concepts make mass treatment possible].

Lymphatic filariasis currently affects some 120 million people in 73 tropical countries. Almost one-half of all those affected have manifest signs and symptoms of disease, of which elephantiasis is the most serious. A large majority of the remainder have subclinical lymphopathy and nephropathy. New scientific discoveries give rise to the hope that the global elimination of this disease--which is associated with physical disfigurement, sexual dysfunction and social decline--might be possible. Today, we have available simple diagnostic tools and highly effective, safe and cost-effective medications. New insights into the pathogenesis now make it possible to alleviate individual suffering and prevent further progression of the disease.