SEROPREVALENCE OF ANTIBODIES AGAINST TRYPANOSOMA CRUZI IN PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING PRENATAL CHECKUPS AT A HOSPITAL IN ASUNCIÓN (JULY-DECEMBER 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, is an endemic zoonosis in Latin America, considered a neglected disease. Despite initiatives to reduce vector transmission, vertical transmission has become predominantly relevant, especially in Paraguay. Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of antibodies against T. cruzi in pregnant women attending the Hospital de Barrio Obrero between July and December 2022. Methodology: A descriptive observational study was conducted analyzing 620 laboratory records, focusing on the 37 identified positive cases. Results: The seroprevalence of Chagas disease was 6%, higher than the national estimates around 5%. Worrisome rates of syphilis (9%) and hepatitis B (6%) were also found. The analysis demonstrated that most women infected with T. cruzi were between 30 and 40 years old. Regarding Toxoplasma gondii, 80% had IgG antibodies, indicating past infections, and 20% had IgM, suggesting recent infections. Conclusion: The findings of
the study underscore the need to improve prenatal screening and health services for vulnerable populations. Strengthening  initiatives like ETMI-Plus is recommended to eliminate maternalinfant transmission of diseases such as Chagas and enhance  maternal-infant health in Paraguay, thereby contributing to regional elimination goals for 2030.