A novel approach to onchocerciasis treatment targets the Wolbachia endosymbiont bacteria that live within O. volvulus adult worms. What drug is used a...

Question

A novel approach to onchocerciasis treatment targets the Wolbachia endosymbiont bacteria that live within O. volvulus adult worms. What drug is used and what is the result?

Accepted Answer

Doxycycline 100 mg daily for 4-6 weeks; depletes Wolbachia, leading to permanent sterilisation and eventual death of adult O. volvulus females

Answer

Metronidazole; kills the worm immediately

Answer

Fluconazole; treats a co-existing fungal infection within the worm

Answer

Rifampicin; targets mycobacteria within the worm

Answer

Azithromycin; kills the worm's gut bacteria

uk-dtmh MCQ (SBA): Anti-Wolbachia Therapy

A novel approach to onchocerciasis treatment targets the Wolbachia endosymbiont bacteria that live within O. volvulus adult worms. What drug is used and what is the result?