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elephantiasis Definition

el·ephan·tia·sis (el′ə fən tī′ə sis)

noun

a chronic disease characterized by the enlargement of certain parts of the body, esp. the legs and genitals, and by the hardening and ulceration of the surrounding skin: it is caused by obstruction of the lymphatic vessels, often due to infestation by filarial worms

Etymology: L < Gr elephantiasis < elephas, elephant: from resemblance of the skin to the elephant's hide + -asis

elephantiasis Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • cause: Infection with these worms is called " lymphatic filariasis " and over a long period of time can cause elephantiasis.
  • include: Symptoms can include elephantiasis as well as an inflammation of lymph nodes and vessels.
  • have: My eyes were nearly swollen shut and my feet and ankles looked like I had elephantiasis.