Difference between action of DEC and Ivermectin in a case of scrotal filariasis is -

Ans. is 'd' i.e., DEC acts on adults, and Ivermectin on microfilariae o No option in this question is absolutely correct because ? 1. Diethyl - carbamazine (DEC) is effective against both the microfilariae of peripheral blood as well as the adult worm. 2. Ivermectine is effective only against microfilarae without affecting adult worm. o But for one answer, option `d' is best because, though DEC act on microfilariae of peripheral blood, it has no effect on microfilariae of W.bancrofti in a hydrocele. o So, option d is paially correct ie DEC act against adults but not against microfilarae in hydrocele, while ivermectin is active against microfilariae. DEC o It causes rapid disappearance of microfilarae of W.bancrofti, W.malayi & Loa-Loa from the human peripheral blood. o The microfilariae of W.bancrofti in a hydrocele are not affected. o DEC kills the adult worms of W.malayi, Loa-Loa, and W.bancrofti. o It has no action against adult worms of oncocerca volvulus. o DEC act by sensitizing the microfilariae, so that they become susceptible to phagocytosis. Ivermectin o It kills the microfilariae, but has no action against adult of W.bacrofti. o It act GABA agonistic action and through a special type of glutamate gate Cl- channel --> Tonic paralysis. o It is the drug of choice for onchocercosis/river blindness (in contrast with DEC) and strongyloidosis. o Ivermectin is the only drug effective orally for scabies and pediculosis.