Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/2445/202886
Title: How effective are rapid diagnostic tests for Chagas disease?
Author: Pinazo, Maria-Jesus
Gascon, Joaquim
Alonso Padilla, Julio
Keywords: Malaltia de Chagas
Medicina clínica
Chagas' disease
Clinical medicine
Issue Date: 11-Jan-2021
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd.
Abstract: Diagnosis of chronic Chagas disease relies on the agreement of two conventional serological tests based on distinct antigens. These require cold to preserve reagents and samples, and equipment and trained personnel to run them. Moreover, results turnaround may be delayed for several weeks risking a loss to follow-up of infected subjects, summoning major disadvantages to access diagnosis (and treatment) in many highly endemic areas. Areas covered: Recent studies have shown the versatility of rapid diagnostic tests for the detection of chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infections in referral centers and in field campaigns, with a performance equivalent to that of conventional tools. Remarkably, RDTs do not require cold storage and provide results within an hour. Additionally, they are easy-to-use and can work with a tiny volume of finger-pricked whole blood. Altogether, major advantages toward generalizing their use as an alternative to conventional tests. Expert opinion: Already in 2021, only a small percentage of T. cruzi-infected people are diagnosed and treated. The unsuitability of currently used diagnostics, and of the recommended algorithm, to the conditions found in many regions do not help to fill this gap. RDTs stand as a promising solution, even though geographical validation should precede their implementation.
Note: Versió postprint del document publicat a: https://doi.org/10.1080/14787210.2021.1873130
It is part of: Expert Review Of Anti-Infective Therapy, 2021, vol. 19, num. 12, p. 1489-1494
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/2445/202886
Related resource: https://doi.org/10.1080/14787210.2021.1873130
ISSN: 1744-8336
Appears in Collections:Articles publicats en revistes (ISGlobal)

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