Situation and vulnerability
The gambiense form can evolve slowly in West and Central Africa; the rhodesi form evolves more rapidly in East and Southern Africa.
Signs and limits of their interpretation
Fever, headache, lymph nodes and pain may precede behavioural disorders, confusion, poor coordination and disruption of the sleep cycle.
Diagnosis and monitoring
The diagnosis combines suitable screening, confirmation of the parasite and stage evaluation. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid may be required depending on the situation.
Check these benchmarks in the WHO reference →
Prevention and care
Early assessment prevents progression to neurological disease. Treatment depends on form and stage; prolonged follow-up may be necessary after treatment.
Practical issues
Is fatigue or bad sleep sufficient for diagnosis?
No: the name of the disease is not a test. Geographical exposure, examination and parasitic confirmation are necessary; other causes may produce these symptoms.
Preparing for an exchange with a professional
- Specific regions and dates of stay
- Fever onset and behavioural changes
- Results of examinations and treatments
Bring the full minutes and dates. This information facilitates evaluation; its collection must not delay an urgent appeal.
Image generated by artificial intelligence. AI illustration; it does not depict a disease, biological agent or diagnosis.
Organize my dates, documents and questions →
Related fact sheets
These sheets share ways or contexts of exhibition in our catalogue. This reconciliation does not establish a differential diagnosis.
Compare African Human Trypanosomiasis with Associated Sheets →
Return to directory file →