Martínez I, Cervantes-Landín A, Espinoza B

Language: Spanish
References: 5
Page: 363-365
PDF size: 68.88 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is a health problem in America and more recently in Europe and Asia, due to the migration of people from endemic areas. Diagnosis is traditionally performed by serological methods. However, there are cases in which the presence of anti-T. cruzi antibodies is not conclusive. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a tool to amplify parasite DNA sequences with high specificity and sensitivity. Although it’s not a routine test, it may be useful in cases with doubtful serology and it will help to determine the best medical treatment.

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