File:Dracunculiasis04.jpeg

This image depicts the subcutaneous emergence of a female Guinea worm, Dracunculus medinensis, from a sufferer’s lower left leg, just distal to the lateral left knee. The white, spaghetti-like worm is being pulled from the wound by the gloved hand of a health worker. Before the worm emerges, a blister develops on the skin. This blister causes a very painful burning sensation and eventually (within 24 - 72 hours) ruptures. Once the worm emerges from the wound, it can only be pulled out a few centimeters each day and wrapped around a small stick, or piece of gauze. Sometimes the worm can be pulled out completely within a few days, but the process often takes weeks.