Abstract

Introduction

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 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 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 towards generalizing their use as alternative to conventional tests.

Expert opinion

Already in 2021, only a small percentage of T. cruzi-infected people are diagnosed and treated. 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.

中文翻译：

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快速诊断测试对查加斯病有多有效？

摘要

介绍

慢性恰加斯病的诊断取决于两种基于独特抗原的常规血清学检测方法的一致性。这些需要冷藏以保存试剂和样品，以及设备和训练有素的人员来运行它们。而且，结果周转可能会延迟数周，有可能失去感染对象的随访风险，这在许多高流行地区造成了获取诊断（和治疗）的主要弊端。

覆盖区域

最近的研究表明，快速诊断测试可在转诊中心和野外活动中检测慢性克鲁斯锥虫的多功能性，其性能与传统工具相当。值得注意的是，RDT不需要冷藏，可以在一小时内提供结果。此外，它们易于使用，并且可以处理少量的手指刺全血。总体而言，将其广泛用作常规测试的替代方法的主要优势。

专家意见

到2021年，只有一小部分的克鲁斯氏锥虫感染者得到了诊断和治疗。当前使用的诊断程序和推荐的算法不适合在许多地区发现的条件，无助于填补这一空白。RDT是有前途的解决方案，即使在实施之前应先进行地理验证。