Human african trypanosomiasis in a traveler: Diagnostic pitfalls

Abstract

An Israeli traveler returning from Tanzania presented with a relapsing febrile illness. A diagnosis of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense infection was established by blood smear after nearly a month. Blood polymerase chain reaction failed to provide an early diagnosis of human African trypanososmiasis. Recognition of suggestive signs should prompt physicians to perform repeated tests before ruling out human African trypanososmiasis. Copyright © 2012 by The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.