What disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi?

Trypanosoma cruzi is the protozoan parasite responsible for Chagas disease, a condition prevalent primarily in parts of Latin America. The transmission typically occurs through the bite of an infected triatomine bug, often referred to as the "kissing bug." Once introduced into the body, the parasite can lead to both acute and chronic forms of Chagas disease, affecting the heart, digestive system, and nervous system.

In contrast, the other options refer to diseases caused by different pathogens. Malaria is caused by Plasmodium species, Leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania species, and Filariasis is typically linked to various filarial worms. Each of these diseases has distinct modes of transmission, causative agents, and clinical manifestations, making the identification of Chagas disease as the correct choice based on its association with Trypanosoma cruzi clear and distinctly relevant.