What disease is associated with Trypanosoma brucei?

Trypanosoma brucei is a parasitic protozoan responsible for causing African sleeping sickness, also known as Trypanosomiasis. This disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected tsetse flies, primarily found in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa.

After infection, the parasite multiplies in the bloodstream and can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to neurological symptoms such as altered sleep patterns, confusion, and other cognitive impairments, hence the name "sleeping sickness." The disease can progress to severe complications if left untreated, including coma and death.

In contrast, malaria is caused by Plasmodium spp. and transmitted via Anopheles mosquitoes. Leishmaniasis is associated with Leishmania spp. and is transmitted through sandfly bites. Finally, dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These differences underscore why African sleeping sickness is specifically linked to Trypanosoma brucei.