Trypanosoma cruzi serology, Blood

Diagnostic Use

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. It is transmitted to animals and people by insect vectors and is found only in the Americas (mainly, in rural areas of Latin America where poverty is widespread). Chagas disease (T. cruzi infection) is also referred to as American trypanosomiasis. Demonstration of T. cruzi IgG is an aid to diagnosis.
African trypanosomiasis (T. brucei) is transmitted to humans by tsetse fly bites. The tsetse flies are found only in rural Africa.
Early symptoms include fever, headaches, joint pains and itching. Later stages may include behavioural changes, confusion and poor coordination.
Treatment involves drugs to kill the parasites

Department

Microbiology - Serology

Delphic Registration Code

TCRU

Laboratory Handling

Laboratory

Referred to Westmead, NSW

Synonyms

American trypanosomiasis
Chagas disease
T. cruzi

Turnaround Time

2 weeks

Test Code

7589

Specimen Type

• Serum

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Serum (Red Cap)

Acceptable

• Serum (Red Cap)
• SST II (Gold Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

10.0

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

5.0

No of Samples Required

1

Pre-testing Requirements

American (Chagas disease) or African (sleeping sickness) must be specified. Clinical and travel history is required.

Aliquot Instructions

Sample Type

• Serum

Minimum Volume (ml)

1.0

Transport to Lab

Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)
If overnight - Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)

Reference Intervals

Reported as IgG Negative or Positive with interpretation.

Test Method

EIA - Referred to Pathology West ICPMR, Westmead, Sydney

Non-Funded Test Cost

$161.41 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

7589

Referred to Westmead, NSW (TAT of 4 weeks)

Contact Information

Enquiry Form