Trypanosoma

Trypanosoma

Trypanosoma (pronunciation: /ˌtrɪpənəˈsoʊmə/) is a genus of kinetoplastids, a monophyletic group of unicellular parasitic flagellate protozoa. The name "Trypanosoma" is derived from the Greek words "trypano-" (borer) and "-soma" (body) due to their corkscrew-like motion.

Etymology

The term "Trypanosoma" was coined by Danish zoologist Fritz Schaudinn in 1903. It is derived from the Greek words "trypanon", meaning "borer" or "auger", and "soma", meaning "body". This is in reference to the organism's corkscrew-like motion.

Classification

Trypanosoma is a genus within the order Trypanosomatida, which belongs to the class Kinetoplastea. The genus contains numerous species, the most well-known of which are Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African trypanosomiasis, and Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease.

Morphology

Trypanosomes are typically elongated, with a characteristic undulating membrane and a single flagellum. They possess a unique organelle called the kinetoplast, which contains the cell's mitochondrial DNA.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Trypanosoma involves a vector, usually a blood-sucking insect, which transmits the parasite from host to host. The parasite undergoes several developmental stages in both the vector and the mammalian host.

Pathogenesis and Clinical Features

Infection with Trypanosoma species can lead to serious diseases in humans, including African trypanosomiasis (also known as sleeping sickness) and Chagas disease. Symptoms can range from fever and fatigue to severe neurological disorders.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Trypanosoma infections typically involves microscopic examination of blood or tissue samples. Treatment options vary depending on the species involved and the stage of the disease, but may include medications such as pentamidine, suramin, and benznidazole.

Related Terms

• Trypanosomatida
• Kinetoplastea
• Trypanosoma brucei
• Trypanosoma cruzi
• African trypanosomiasis
• Chagas disease
• kinetoplast
• pentamidine
• suramin
• benznidazole

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Trypanosoma
• Wikipedia's article - Trypanosoma

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