Trypanosoma cruzi

Trypanosoma cruzi is a single-celled parasite that infects humans and other mammals. It causes Chagas disease and is transmitted chiefly by triatomine insects.

Trypomastigote: An elongated, flagellated form of Trypanosoma cruzi found in blood and in the insect gut. This bloodstream stage spreads between host cells and can be taken up by a feeding triatomine.
Benznidazole: An antiparasitic medicine used to treat Chagas disease. It is one of the principal drugs used against T. cruzi infection, especially in acute disease.
Carlos Chagas: A Brazilian physician and researcher who identified Trypanosoma cruzi and described Chagas disease. In 1909, Chagas reported the parasite, its insect vector, and human disease in an unusually broad discovery.
Discrete typing unit: A genetically defined lineage group used to classify Trypanosoma cruzi populations. DTUs capture genetic diversity that can influence geographic distribution and clinical patterns.
Amastigote: A small, rounded, non-flagellated form of Trypanosoma cruzi that multiplies inside mammalian cells. Intracellular amastigotes reproduce before transforming into forms that spread through the host.
Nifurtimox: An antiparasitic medicine used to treat Trypanosoma cruzi infection. It provides an alternative treatment for Chagas disease when therapy is indicated.
Oswaldo Cruz: A Brazilian physician and public-health leader who directed major campaigns against infectious disease. Chagas worked at the institute Cruz led when he investigated the parasite.
Trypanosoma cruzi I: A major genetic lineage of Trypanosoma cruzi, also called TcI. TcI is widespread in the Americas and is common in sylvatic transmission cycles.
Triatominae: A subfamily of blood-feeding insects that includes important vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi. Infected bugs deposit parasites in feces near the bite, enabling entry through skin or mucosa.
Serology: The study or diagnostic testing of antibodies and other components in blood serum. Chronic T. cruzi infection is commonly diagnosed by detecting antibodies with more than one assay.

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