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Orbital Cellulitis in Chagas Disease: An Unusual Presentation
Erick Hernandez-Bogantes1,2, Erick Campos-Fuentes3, Mario Barrantes-Dominguez1
1Centro Ocular, Heredia, Costa Rica.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|September 5, 2020
Summary
Chagas disease, an infection from the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, can cause orbital cellulitis. Early diagnosis and antiparasitic treatment led to a farmer's recovery from acute Chagas disease.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic to South America and Central America but is increasingly recognized in non-endemic regions.
- The parasite is transmitted via triatomine bug vectors and can lead to acute or chronic illness.
- Orbital cellulitis is a potential, though uncommon, manifestation of acute Chagas disease.
Observation:
- A case study of a 47-year-old farmer presenting with right orbital cellulitis unresponsive to antibiotics.
- Clinical presentation, patient history, and differential diagnosis led to suspecting Chagas disease.
- Diagnosis of acute phase Chagas disease was confirmed.
Findings:
- The patient received antiparasitic treatment for Chagas disease.
- Successful recovery from orbital cellulitis and acute Chagas disease was observed.
- Ongoing monitoring for potential chronic Chagas disease development is planned.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Chagas disease in the differential diagnosis of orbital cellulitis, even in non-endemic areas.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications.
- Underscores the expanding geographic reach of Chagas disease due to global migration.
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