Chagas Disease

Ann Intern Med. 2023 Feb;176(2):ITC17-ITC32. doi: 10.7326/AITC202302210. Epub 2023 Feb 14.

Abstract

Chagas disease, which is caused by infection with the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is a leading neglected tropical disease in the United States. An estimated 240 000 to 350 000 persons in the United States are infected, primarily immigrants from Mexico, Central America, and South America, where the disease is endemic. The parasite is transmitted by the triatomine bug but can also be passed through blood transfusion, via organ transplant, or congenitally. Approximately 30% of infected persons later develop cardiac and/or gastrointestinal complications. Health care providers should consider screening at-risk patients with serologic testing. Early diagnosis and treatment with benznidazole or nifurtimox can help prevent complications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chagas Disease* / diagnosis
  • Chagas Disease* / drug therapy
  • Chagas Disease* / epidemiology
  • Emigrants and Immigrants*
  • Humans
  • Nifurtimox / therapeutic use
  • Organ Transplantation*
  • Trypanosoma cruzi*
  • United States

Substances

  • Nifurtimox