African trypanosomiasis

African trypanosomiasis, also known as SLEEPING SICKNESS, is a form of TRYPANOSOMIASIS caused by subspecies of the PROTOZOAN PARASITE TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI, mainly TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI GAMBIENSE and TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI RHODESIENSE. It is transmitted through the bite of infected TSETSE FLIES of the genus GLOSSINA. The disease progresses from an early HEMOLYMPHATIC STAGE, involving the blood and lymphatic system, to a late NEUROLOGICAL STAGE when parasites invade the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, causing sleep disturbances, behavioral changes, neurological problems, and potentially death if untreated.

African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, is a parasitic disease spread by tsetse flies that can affect the brain and disturb sleep patterns.

• African trypanosomiasis is also called sleeping sickness. • It is caused by Trypanosoma brucei parasites. • It spreads through bites from infected tsetse flies. • The disease has two main stages: - Early stage: affects blood and lymph tissues. - Late stage: affects the brain and nervous system. • Symptoms may include fever, weakness, confusion, and sleep disturbances. • Without treatment, advanced disease can become life-threatening. • Diagnosis and treatment depend on the stage and parasite type.