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Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics 6/2010

01-12-2010 | Materno-Fetal Medicine

Chagas disease in pregnancy: a non-endemic problem in a globalized world

Authors: Faustino R. Pérez-López, Peter Chedraui

Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics | Issue 6/2010

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Abstract

Background

Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi infection, is an endemic cause of morbidity and mortality in Latin America. Infection during pregnancy may increase the risk for adverse maternal-foetal outcome.

Methods

Review of significant articles regarding maternal-foetal T. cruzi infection in free-vector non-endemic regions.

Results

Vertical transmission, even in vector-free world regions, occurs in 1 out of 20 seropositive mothers. T. cruzi infection increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth and neonatal infection which may cause infant death or severe sequelae. Prevention of T. cruzi vertical transmission is not feasible, although early diagnosis allows appropriate treatment of newborns with a 100% efficacy. The present document will recall the importance of T. cruzi mother-to-child transmission and maternal-foetal consequences in non-endemic areas.

Conclusion

It is highly recommended that infected pregnant women in non-endemic regions be accurately assessed.
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Metadata
Title
Chagas disease in pregnancy: a non-endemic problem in a globalized world
Authors
Faustino R. Pérez-López
Peter Chedraui
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics / Issue 6/2010
Print ISSN: 0932-0067
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0711
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-010-1553-7

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