Hyperendemic West African trypanosomiasis in a rural hospital setting

Over 60 cases of trypanosomiasis presented to Eku Hospital between May 1983 and May 1985. During this time, within this previously unreported hyperendemic focus, 47 patients were documented microscopically. Their clinical characteristics are reported here. Seventy-four per cent were felt to have CNS involvement on presentation. Compliance with the therapeutic regimen was a major problem, requiring adjustments in the usually accepted management of this disorder.