Complications
Although cardiac manifestations in the acute phase of Chagas disease are common, severe cases are rare clinical events.
The intense process of inflammation and cell destruction (myocytes and autonomic nervous system) causes associated pericarditis and endocarditis.
In the follow-up period, diagnosis should be made promptly, and treatment started as soon as possible. Treatment should include supportive measures and specific antiparasitic treatment.
Observed in neonates with congenital disease or the acute phase of Chagas disease. Occurs in association with myocarditis. Prognosis is poor.
Treated with specific antiparasitic treatment and supportive measures.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease involving the oesophagus. May progress to bowel ischaemia and sepsis. Surgical treatment is required.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease involving the oesophagus. Patients with severe mega-oesophagus who do not receive medical attention can die of malnutrition and/or of chronic aspiration pneumonitis, which is caused by regurgitation and aspiration of food, particularly during sleep.
Mortality is high in patients with chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection due to rhythm disturbances and congestive heart failure.
Frequently associated with chronic cardiopathy as a consequence of thromboembolism.
Frequently associated with chronic cardiopathy as a consequence of thromboembolism.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease involving the oesophagus. Surgical treatment is required.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease involving the oesophagus. There is an increased risk of oesophageal rupture or cancer.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease involving the oesophagus. There is a higher occurrence in patients with Chagas disease than in the general population. Radiotherapy or chemotherapy is required.
Weight loss and cachexia occurs as a consequence of severe chronic gastrointestinal disease of the oesophagus.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease of the colon. May progress to bowel ischaemia and sepsis. Surgical treatment is required. Megacolon can result in death, usually when sigmoid volvulus occurs and is not resolved surgically.
Occurs as a consequence of chronic gastrointestinal disease of the colon.
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