How Do You Spell TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI?

1. Trypanosoma brucei is a unicellular parasitic protozoan species belonging to the genus Trypanosoma, commonly referred to as African trypanosomes. This species specifically infects humans and other animals, causing a severe and potentially fatal disease known as African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness. Trypanosoma brucei is a flagellated organism known for its distinctive appearance characterized by a long, whip-like flagellum-like structure called a tsetse fly, which serves as the vector for transmission.

   The life cycle of Trypanosoma brucei involves two hosts: a vertebrate host (typically humans) and an invertebrate host (the tsetse fly). The parasite is transmitted to the vertebrate host through the bite of an infected tsetse fly. Once inside the host, the trypanosomes multiply and spread throughout the bloodstream, eventually invading the central nervous system. This invasion is responsible for the symptoms associated with sleeping sickness, including neurological abnormalities, sleep disturbances, and sometimes even coma.

   The diagnosis of Trypanosoma brucei infection is primarily achieved through the examination of blood, lymph node, or cerebrospinal fluid samples for the presence of the parasite. Treatment typically involves the administration of specific drugs, such as pentamidine or suramin, depending on the stage of the disease. However, treatment options are limited due to the complex nature of the parasite's life cycle and the associated drug resistance.

   Efforts to control and eliminate Trypanosoma brucei have focused on vector control measures to reduce tsetse fly populations and the development of new drugs and vaccines. However, challenges remain, especially in resource-limited areas where the disease is endemic.

2. The parasite of nagana or tsetse fly disease.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI

The word "Trypanosoma" is derived from the Greek words "trypanon" meaning "borer" or "auger", and "soma" meaning "body". This term was coined in reference to the characteristic boring motion of these organisms.

"Trypanosoma" is a genus of microscopic parasitic protozoa known for its distinct "trypomastigote" form, which is elongated with a flagellum. These parasites are commonly found in various vertebrates, including humans, and are responsible for causing diseases such as African sleeping sickness and Chagas disease.

The specific name "brucei" is in honor of Sir David Bruce, a prominent Scottish pathologist and microbiologist who played a crucial role in discovering the cause of African sleeping sickness.