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Acute Chagas disease in a returning traveler
Yvonne L Carter1, Jonathan J Juliano, Susan P Montgomery
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA. cartery@ecu.edu
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|October 24, 2012
Summary
Acute Chagas disease is often missed in travelers. Increased awareness is crucial for diagnosing this parasitic infection in visitors to Central America, as demonstrated by a case from Costa Rica.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Chagas disease, caused by *Trypanosoma cruzi*, is a significant public health concern in endemic regions.
- Acute Chagas disease is frequently asymptomatic or presents with non-specific symptoms, leading to underdiagnosis.
- Travelers to endemic areas are at risk, but the precise risk and recognition of acute infection remain poorly defined.
Observation:
- A case of acute Chagas disease is presented in a traveler returning from Costa Rica.
- The patient's travel history to a Chagas-endemic area was a key factor in diagnosis.
- Clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges in a non-endemic setting were noted.
Findings:
- This case underscores the potential for acquiring Chagas disease during travel to Central America.
- Acute Chagas disease diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion in returning travelers with relevant exposure history.
- Diagnostic tools and clinical awareness are vital for timely identification.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider Chagas disease in travelers presenting with relevant symptoms after visiting Central America.
- Enhanced surveillance and diagnostic protocols for Chagas disease in travelers are warranted.
- Increased awareness can improve early detection and management of Chagas disease in global travelers.
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