Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) commonly known as sleeping sickness occurs in about 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa and results in a large number of deaths and considerable illness. The drugs used in the treatment of HAT are very toxic and therefore might not be safe in pregnancy. Few published data exist on the treatment of HAT in pregnancy. We describe a case of T. brucei gambiense infection occurring in a pregnant woman that was successfully treated with Melarsoprol with no toxic effect to mother and the baby after 2 years of follow-up.
Highlights
Human African trypanosomiasis has been identified as the third most important contributor to the global burden of parasitic diseases after malaria and schistosomiasis [1]
Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is an illness endemic to sub-Saharan Africa extending to about 14 ̊N and 20 ̊S [2] [3]. It is distinct from American trypanosomiasis, which is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, and has different vectors, clinical manifestations, and therapies [4]
How to cite this paper: Ugoji, U.C., Bock-Oruma, A.A., Umukoro, D. and Ndukwu, G.U. (2014) Human African Trypanosomiasis Successfully Treated with Melarsoprol in Pregnancy in a Niger Delta Rural Hospital
Summary
Human African trypanosomiasis has been identified as the third most important contributor to the global burden of parasitic diseases after malaria and schistosomiasis [1]. HAT is an illness endemic to sub-Saharan Africa extending to about 14 ̊N and 20 ̊S [2] [3] It is distinct from American trypanosomiasis, which is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, and has different vectors, clinical manifestations, and therapies [4]. Rhodesiense (East African sleeping sickness) is found in focal areas of eastern and southeastern Africa whereas T. b. Most of the drugs used for the treatment of HAT especially the second stage of the disease have been reported to result in severe adverse reaction in the patient which can sometimes be fatal. We hereby present a case of HAT in a pregnant woman at the second stage of the disease that is successfully treated with Melarsoprol without adverse effect on the mother and the fetus
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