Prevalence and diagnostic accuracy of different diagnostic tests for Chagas disease in an indigenous community of the Paraguayan Chaco.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), poses a major health challenge in Paraguay, especially in the resource-limited Chaco region. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are valuable tools to enhance diagnostic access. This study evaluates CD prevalence and risk factors in an indigenous community in the Paraguayan Chaco and validates the national RDT-based diagnostic algorithm for resource-limited settings against the recommended standard algorithm, which relies solely on conventional serological tests.

Methodology

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Casanillo, Presidente Hayes, Paraguay. In July 2023, a two-week field campaign was executed using a non-probability convenience sampling method targeting individuals aged

SUBMITTER: Ardiles-Ruesjas S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11819515 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature