ICD-11

A disease caused by an infection with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei. This disease presents with symptoms depending on the form of the protozoan parasite (Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense or Trypanosoma brucei gambiense). Transmission is through the bite of an infected tsetse fly. Confirmation is by identification of Trypanosoma brucei in a blood or tissue sample.

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), also called sleeping sickness, is an illness endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. It is caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma brucei, which exists in 2 morphologically identical subspecies: Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (East African or Rhodesian African trypanosomiasis) and Trypanosoma brucei gambiense (West African or Gambian African trypanosomiasis). The protozoal is transmitted to human hosts by bites of infected tsetse flies. African trypanosomiasis is distinct from American trypanosomiasis, which is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and has different vectors, clinical manifestations, and therapies.

A disease caused by an infection with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. This disease is characterised by fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, or malaise. This disease may also present with lymphadenopathy, weight loss, or neurological deficits. Transmission is through the bite of an infected tsetse fly. Confirmation is by identification of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense in a biopsy of the lymph node.

West African or Gambian African trypanosomiasis, is a disease caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, which is transmitted to human hosts by bites of infected tsetse flies Glossina palpalis. The reservoirs of infection for these vectors are exclusively human in West African trypanosomiasis.