Clinical and epidemiological profile of patients in the chronic phase of Chagas disease treated at a reference center in the Southeast region of Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: After implementing measures to control vector transmission by Triatoma infestans in Brazil, the number of new cases of Chagas disease decreased. Currently, the American continent has an annual incidence of 28 000 cases, but there are still a large number of older adults affected by the chronic phase of this disease. Objective: To characterize the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients in the chronic phase of Chagas disease treated at a reference center of São Paulo (State), Brazil. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive study based on the analysis of the clinical histories of 62 patients in the chronic phase of Chagas disease and treated at Hospital das Clínicas de Marília. Results: No significant differences were found regarding sex, age and time of diagnosis. Cardiac problems were the most reported symptom. A significant difference was observed in the case of the indeterminate form of the disease, which was more predominant in males. In addition, functional class B1 was more common in women, while B2 predominated in men. Conclusion: A late diagnosis of Chagas disease may increase the chances of presenting digestive symptoms. However, the classic manifestations of the disease and its comorbidities can be successfully managed as long as comprehensive (multidisciplinary) medical care is provided, since this would help delay the course of the disease and, consequently, improve the patients’ quality of life.

Keywords

• Trypanosoma cruzi
• Doença de Chagas
• Eletrocardiografia
• Perfil epidemiológico
• Comorbidade