Authors: Claudilson J. C. Bastos, Roque Aras, Gildo Mota, Francisco Reis, Juarez Pereira Dias, Robson Silva de Jesus, Miralba Silva Freire, Eline G. de Araújo, Juliana Prazeres, Maria Fernanda Rios Grassi
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000711
Abstract Summary
Two foodborne Chagas disease outbreaks in Brazil revealed severe cardiac complications in 13 patients. Myocarditis proved common and dangerous, killing two before treatment. Most survivors showed heart abnormalities including fluid around the heart and impaired pumping. Benznidazole treatment dramatically improved outcomes, normalizing heart function in most patients and resolving fluid buildup.
Why Brain? 🧠
Oral Chagas disease outbreaks in Brazil show high mortality from severe myocarditis. Early benznidazole treatment significantly improved cardiac function and symptoms in survivors, highlighting importance of rapid diagnosis.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
