microfilariae

Microfilariae are the tiny, immature stages of parasitic worms called filarial worms. These worms live in the human body, often in the lymphatic system or tissues, and their microfilariae circulate in the blood or skin. They are produced by adult worms and are responsible for spreading the infection to new hosts through mosquito bites. Detecting microfilariae in blood samples helps diagnose infections like elephantiasis and river blindness. Their presence indicates an ongoing filarial infection and helps guide appropriate treatment to eliminate the worms.