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Questions and Answers
What is the primary mode of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi?
What is a common symptom of Chagas disease?
How is Trypanosoma cruzi typically diagnosed?
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?
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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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