Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness): a pediatric case report

Human African trypanosomiasis is caused by protozoa of the genus Trypanosoma sp. and is primarily transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly. This report presents a pediatric case diagnosed with human African trypanosomiasis in low-incidence areas of Central Africa, diagnosed by Cuban collaborators. Case presentation: A 12-year-old patient with a medical history had traveled to an area with active cases of trypanosomiasis within the last 2 years. The patient presented with recurrent fever, general weakness, and drowsiness. Rapid diagnostic tests were positive for salmonellosis and malaria. The patient was treated with antibiotics, with no clinical improvement. The diagnosis was positive for Trypanosoma sp. by thick blood smear and staining. Clinical improvement occurred after nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy according to the regional protocol for Trypanosoma brucei gambiense in the second phase of infection. Clinical improvement was seen at 48 hours. Conclusions: Human African trypanosomiasis is a common infection in regions where medical assistance is provided by Cuban medical personnel. The high endemism of other infections with similar symptoms and acquired immunity favors late identification without adequate knowledge and timely clinical-epidemiological analysis. A complementary definition and specific therapeutic measures ensure a good outcome and a better prognosis.