DOENÇA DE CHAGAS: UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Abstract

Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, still represents a serious public health problem in the Americas, especially in vulnerable populations. This study aimed to review the scientific literature on the disease, addressing its forms of transmission, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and the role of nursing in prevention. This is a narrative review, with a survey of articles in the PubMed, Scielo, BVS and LILACS databases, published in the last 5 to 10 years. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 29 articles were selected. The results indicate that the disease evolves in two phases: acute, usually asymptomatic, and chronic, with possible cardiac and digestive complications. Diagnosis varies according to the phase, using parasitological and serological methods. Treatment is carried out with benznidazole or nifurtimox, which are more effective in the acute phase. Nursing plays an essential role in health care and education, contributing to prevention and early detection. It is concluded that Chagas Disease requires integrated care strategies and public policies that strengthen surveillance, early diagnosis and preventive action by the health team.