The epidemiology and household distribution of seroreactivity to Trypanosoma cruzi in a rural community in northeast Brazil.

摘要: The prevalence rates and household distribution of seroreactivity to Trypanosoma cruzi by complement fixation (CF) indirect immunofluorescent antibody methods were determined in a population 1,087 persons living rural area endemic for Chagas' disease northeast Brazil. There was gradual rise the rate seropositivity 60% age 20. Between ages 20 55 remained at about 60%, but declined thereafter. decline older groups not accompanied fall geometric mean titer, suggesting that might better be explained an increased mortality among those seropositive than decrease CF reactivity associated with age. variation children geographic subunits, adults fairly uniform. Household clustering demonstrated when both size taken into account. presence child less 5 years good indicator high seropositivity; screening young useful tool locate risk households. Seropositive households where mother father seronegative significantly younger even though overall similar; thus, conversion earlier life mothers may due solely exposure, indicate immunologic response such differed from mothers.