Abstract

GONTIJO, Eliane Dias et al. Neonatal screening program for the infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in Minas Gerais, Brazil: congenital transmission and tracking of the endemic areas. Epidemiol. Serv. Saúde [online]. 2009, vol.18, n.3, pp.243-254. ISSN 1679-4974.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5123/S1679-49742009000300007.

In Brazil, once vectoral and transfusional transmissions are under control, congenital transmission of Chagas disease has become the main form. Treatment of congenital infection is often successful, so early detection becomes a relevant issue of public health. To determine the risk of congenital Chagas disease (CCD), were studied 63. 673 newborns enrolled at Neonatal Screening Program, at Minas Gerais, Brazil. The prevalence of Chagas disease in pregnant women was 0.5%(IC_95% 0,37-0,54), varying from 2,3 to 23%, with higher rates found in the northern state region. Transmission risk was estimated at 0.2%(IC_95% 0,00-0,55) leading to an incidence rate of 1.6 per 100,000 live births(IC_95% 0,00-5,00) Serology survey was shown to be an efficient diagnostic tool, it should be included at neonatal screening programs in endemic areas. Asymptomatic children from infected mothers should be tested at six months of age, and if positive, serology should be repeated at nine months of age, before initiating therapeutic interventions.

Keywords : Chagas disease; Trypanosoma cruzi; congenital infection; epidemiology; Minas Gerais State.

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