Infectious Disease Clinics of North America 2012-06-01

American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas Disease)

Anis Rassi, Anis Rassi, Joffre Marcondes de Rezende, Anis Rassi, Anis Rassi, Joffre Marcondes de Rezende

Index: Infect. Dis. Clin. North Am. 26(2) , 275-91, (2012)

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Abstract

Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is a chronic infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, a protozoan parasite. It is transmitted to human beings mainly through the feces of infected triatomine bugs. The disease affects an estimated 8 to 10 million people in the Americas, putting them at risk of developing life-threatening cardiac and gastrointestinal complications. This article provides a brief update on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of Chagas disease.