What is Elephantiasis? A Simple Guide to Lymphatic Filariasis Elephantiasis is a debilitating disease marked by intense swelling, most often affecting the legs or genital area, resulting from the malfunction of the lymphatic system. This system, which plays a crucial role in moving fluids and fighting infections in the body, becomes compromised when certain parasitic worms invade it. When the lymphatic vessels become blocked or damaged, fluid accumulates in the tissues, leading to the characteristic thickening and massive swelling that gives the disease its name—elephantiasis, because the skin and limbs can resemble those of an elephant. Fig:Vector of Elephantitis The underlying cause of elephantiasis is usually lymphatic filariasis, an infection triggered by thread-li...