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Updated: Mar 27, 2026
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Parasite Induced Genetically Driven Autoimmune Chagas Heart Disease in the Chicken Model
Published on: July 29, 2012
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Cardiac involvement in parasitic infections
Maria Carmo Pereira Nunes1, Johannes Blum2,3, Teresa Cristina Abreu Ferrari1
1Hospital das Clínicas and Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Professor Alfredo Balena, 190, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130 100, Brazil.
European Heart Journal
|March 25, 2026
Summary
Parasitic infections can cause heart disease through direct invasion or immune responses, affecting the myocardium and pericardium. Early consideration in patients with unexplained heart conditions and relevant exposure is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Parasitic infections are an underrecognized cause of cardiovascular disease globally.
- Cardiac manifestations arise from direct parasitic invasion or immune-mediated inflammation.
- Global migration and travel increase the incidence in non-endemic areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of cardiac involvement in parasitic infections.
- To integrate current evidence on epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.
- To offer clinically oriented guidance for healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- It synthesizes current evidence on parasitic cardiac disease.
- Guidance is supported by figures, algorithms, and summary tables.
Main Results:
- Clinical manifestations include myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, and pericardial disease.
- Diagnosis should be considered in unexplained heart conditions with relevant exposure, immunosuppression, fever, or eosinophilia.
- Parasitic cardiac disease requires specific diagnostic and management strategies.
Conclusions:
- Parasitic cardiac disease is an important, often overlooked, cause of heart conditions.
- Awareness and consideration of parasitic etiologies are vital, especially in at-risk populations.
- This review aims to enhance clinical applicability and patient outcomes.
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