Trypanosomes

Definition

Trypanosomes are protozoan parasites known for causing diseases such as African sleeping sickness and Chagas disease. They evade the host's immune system through antigenic variation, making them challenging to treat.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trypanosomes primarily affect the human nervous system and cardiovascular system.
2. They are transmitted to humans via insect vectors like the tsetse fly and triatomine bugs.
3. Antigenic variation in trypanosomes makes it difficult for the host's immune system to target them effectively.
4. Common drugs used against trypanosomes include pentamidine, suramin, and nifurtimox.
5. Resistance to antimicrobial drugs is a significant concern in treating trypanosome infections.

Review Questions

• How do trypanosomes evade the host's immune system?
• What are the primary vectors that transmit trypanosome infections to humans?
• Name at least two drugs commonly used to treat trypanosome infections.

Related terms

Antigenic Variation: A mechanism by which pathogens alter their surface proteins to evade a host's immune response.

Tsetse Fly: An insect vector responsible for transmitting African sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei.

Pentamidine: An antimicrobial drug used in treating early-stage African sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei.