Clinical and serological evolution in chronic Chagas disease patients in a 4-year pharmacotherapy follow-up : a preliminary study

Abstract

Introduction: The role of trypanocidal therapy in the chronic phase of Chagas disease remains controversial. Methods: A total of 13 patients with chronic Chagas disease were treated with benznidazole (5mg/kg/day/60 days) and surveyed via antibody measurement and conventional electrocardiogram over the course of 4 years. Results: The antibody titers were signifi cantly reduced after 4 years (p<0.05). Most of the patients showed maintenance of the initial clinical picture (electrocardiographic), with the exception of 4 cases. Conclusions: Although trypanocidal therapy in the chronic phase of Chagas disease was of limited effectiveness, we believe that it is benefi cial in treating these patients.