Abstract:
The current diagnostic procedures for human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) are
invasive. Urine being a non‐invasive sample could be an alternative to the current
screening that is based on blood sampling and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This study
was aimed at determining whether urine could be used in the diagnosis of sleeping
sickness. Three vervet monkeys were infected with Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense
(T.b rhodesiense) while other three served as non‐infected controls. Urine samples
were collected in plain 50 ml Falcon® at weekly intervals during early and late stage
disease. Protein analysis in urine was done using the fortress protein assay kit.
Analysis for pH, specific gravity and ketones was done using rapid test strips
(ChoiceLine 10, Roche Germany). Genomic DNA was extracted using phenolchloroform
method and the Serum resistant (SRA) gene amplified. There was a
significant increase in total protein concentration on day14, 49, 56 and 63 postinfection
(PI). Ketone, acidity and specific gravity levels in urine increased
significantly (P<0.05) during the acute stage (days 7 and 14 PI). The changes in urine
during infection may indicate damage to the glomerulus membrane. There was no
amplification of trypanosome and this could be attributed to inhibitors in the urine
(DNA degradation by nucleases and, high concentration of metal ions). This study
suggests that changes in urine parameters could be used as biomarkers for early and
late stage diagnosis of T.b.rhodesiense HAT and thus warrants further investigation.
