Chagas Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and How It’s Managed
From insect bites to chronic complications, here’s what you need to know about Chagas disease.
8. How Do Doctors Diagnose Chagas Disease?
Doctors diagnose Chagas disease differently depending on the phase of infection. In the acute phase, the parasite can be detected directly in blood samples. In the chronic phase, diagnosis relies on blood tests that detect antibodies the body produces against the parasite. Usually, at least two different antibody tests are used to confirm the infection.
To determine how far the disease has progressed, doctors may use additional tests such as electrocardiograms (ECG) or echocardiograms to check for heart complications and imaging of the digestive system if problems like enlarged esophagus or colon are suspected. These tests help guide treatment and monitor long-term effects of the disease.
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