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Questions and Answers
What is the primary mode of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi?
What is the primary mode of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi?
What is a common symptom of Chagas disease?
What is a common symptom of Chagas disease?
How is Trypanosoma cruzi typically diagnosed?
How is Trypanosoma cruzi typically diagnosed?
What is the name of the treatment for Chagas disease mentioned in the text?
What is the name of the treatment for Chagas disease mentioned in the text?
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What is the name of the disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi?
What is the name of the disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi?
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Study Notes
Trypanosoma Cruzi and Chagas Disease
- Found in South and Central America, similar to Che Guevara's origins
- Causes Chagas disease, which can be transmitted through the feces of the kissing bug (reduviid bug)
- The parasite tunnels into tissue and feeds on blood and lymph of its victim
Transmission and Infection
- Transmission occurs when the victim scratches the infected area, allowing the parasite to enter the body
- Infection may be asymptomatic, but can lead to Chagas disease 10-20 years later
Symptoms of Chagas Disease
- Megacolon, characterized by a swollen large intestine and extreme constipation
- Dilated cardiomyopathy, causing a heart condition with a saddle-shaped heart
- Megaesophagus, causing difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosed by blood smear during an active infection
- Nifurtimox treatment is available for Chagas disease
Parasite Characteristics
- Burrows into the endocardium, a layer of tissue in the heart
- Transmitted by the reduviid bug, also known as the kissing bug
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