Trypanosoma cruzi seroprevalence and associated risk factors in cancer patients from Southern Brazil

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2016 Nov-Dec;49(6):768-771. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0202-2016.

Abstract

Introduction:: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Chagas disease in patients treated at a Public Oncology Service in the City of Pelotas, Southern Brazil.

Methods:: This study included 200 individuals undergoing cancer treatment and involved the use of a questionnaire and venous blood collection for the detection of anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibody.

Results:: The study found a 5% prevalence of patient seropositivity. Significant variables are presented and discussed in the article.

Conclusions:: Serological T. cruzi checks are recommended in cancer patients, especially individuals from endemic areas in Brazil and other Latin American countries.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antibodies, Protozoan / blood*
  • Brazil / epidemiology
  • Chagas Disease / complications
  • Chagas Disease / diagnosis
  • Chagas Disease / epidemiology*
  • Endemic Diseases
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / complications*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Prevalence
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Trypanosoma cruzi / immunology*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antibodies, Protozoan