SEROPREVALENCIA DE Trypanosoma cruzi EN DONANTES DE LA CRUZ ROJA PORTOVIEJO

Abstract

Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of anti Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies in donors from the Portoviejo Red Cross, period 2011-October 2020. Chagas disease is a disease of infectious origin, which is caused by the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by triatomines, better known as 'Bedbugs' that we can find especially in areas related to rural areas and poverty. The most common form of transmission is through the fecal matter of triatomines, which contain metacyclic trypomastigote forms that penetrate the human skin. Other forms of acquisition are, by transplacental route, by organ transplants or by blood transfusions. Methodology: The study corresponds to a retrospective research, with a descriptive-analytical scope. The test used to determine antibodies against T. cruzi in the Red Cross is serological by electrochemiluminescence; The patient must have 2 positive results from 3 tests to confirm it as chagasic. Results: A prevalence of 0.33% of seropositivity to T. cruzi in the donors studied was determined, with the highest number of positives in males (84%), 41 to 50 years (28%), single (51 %), students (16%) and inhabitants of other cantons of Manabí or provinces (59.3%). In addition, triptychs and a mural were delivered to the Portoviejo Red Cross on preventive measures to counteract this parasite. Conclusion: A low seroprevalence for T. cruzi was detected in blood donors, similar to that reported by PAHO for Ecuador