Chagas disease
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - B57
Definition
Chagas disease is an infectious disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, found in the feces of an insect known as the kissing bug.
Symptoms
Chagas disease has an acute phase, with prolonged fever, headache, and weakness. And Then there is a chronic phase, which may take years to appear, when heart and digestive problems occur.
Causes
Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite found in the feces of the kissing bug, which can enter the bloodstream orally or after a bite. In the latter case, the feces are deposited next to the bite and enter the bloodstream when the person scratches the area.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Chagas disease is made through symptom evaluation, and may be complemented by laboratory and radiological tests. In areas with more cases of infection, this suspicion should be given special attention.
Prevention
Prevention of Chagas disease aims to avoid the proliferation of the kissing bug in endemic areas. This means maintaining houses, using insecticides, installing insect protection nets, and being cautious with potentially contaminated food.
Treatment
Treatment for Chagas disease is carried out with antiparasitic medications, which are effective in the early stages of the disease. Complications of Chagas disease, especially in the chronic phase, require individualized care.
Duration
In the acute phase, symptoms of Chagas disease last from three to eight weeks. Without treatment, people may remain asymptomatic for two to three decades, until the chronic phase manifests with more severe symptoms, such as heart and digestive problems.
ContagionIs it contagious?
Chagas disease can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or through breastfeeding. However, its main form of transmission occurs through the feces of the kissing bug, and not directly from person to person.
Can it be contracted more than once?
In the acute phase, Chagas disease can be cured. In the chronic phase, however, complications tend not to go away.