In addition to the seven most common neglected tropical diseases (ascariasis, trichuriasis, hookworm, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and trachoma), several other NTDs cause significant suffering among the poorest of the world’s communities. Like the most common ones, these NTDs promote the continuation of poverty in developing communities by impairing physical and intellectual growth and decreasing worker productivity.
Buruli ulcer (Bairnsdale ulcer)
Buruli ulcer is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. Early infection yields nodules which develop into lesions in the skin and occasionally in adjacent bone. More severe infection causes diffuse swelling of a limb, sometimes with fever. Scientists believe the disease is transmitted from aquatic areas, rather than from person-to-person contact. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the lesion, which can be dangerous and hard to obtain in developing countries where the disease is more prevalent.
Dengue / Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)
Dengue/dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is caused by four closely-related virus serotypes of the Flavivirus family. The infection is common in Africa and other tropical regions and is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include severe headaches, fever, joint and muscle pain, and a characteristic rash.
Dracunculiasis (guinea worm)
Caused by the parasitic worm (nematode) Dracunculus medinensis, this disease is transmitted through ingestion of stagnant water that is contaminated with guinea worm larvae. Global endemicity has been significantly reduced in recent years, and guinea worm may be the first NTD to be eradicated.
Human African trypanosomiasis (African sleeping sickness)
This parasitic disease is caused by protozoa of the Trypanosoma genus of the Trypanosomatidae class, which are transmitted by a blood sucking insect, the tsetse fly. It is endemic in approximately 36 countries, and afflicts an estimated 50,000-70,000 people. If left untreated the disease is fatal in 100% of cases and can lead to a panoply of neurological disorders including psychiatric disorders, seizures, coma and ultimately death.
Leishmaniasis
This NTD is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted via the bite of certain species of sand fly. Symptoms of infection include skin sores, fever, anemia, and liver and spleen damage. The most severe form of the disease, visceral leishmaniasis, occurs when the parasites have migrated to the body’s vital organs.
Leprosy
This chronic disease is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Social stigma significantly inhibits early reporting and treatment; left untreated, the disease can result in permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs, and eyes. Those who are malnourished or have immunocompromising diseases such as HIV/AIDS, and those who live around environments with contaminated water, are at highest risk of infection.
For more detailed information on the other NTDs, click here
