Acute Brugian filariasis in a German tourist after short-term travel to Sri Lanka, 2025

Abstract

A German traveller developed leg oedema with adenolymphangitis after a 3-week trip to Sri Lanka. Laboratory tests showed slight eosinophilia, positive filarial serology and motile microfilariae in day and night-time blood samples. PCR revealed 99% homology for Brugia malayi. Lymphatic filariasis has been eliminated in Sri Lanka, but zoonotic B. malayi has re-emerged. Physicians need to be alert and consider filariasis as potential differential diagnosis. Surveillance and vector control efforts should be sustained to prevent resurgence in Sri Lanka.