Chagas Disease and Other Infectious Cardiomyopathies: Latin America and US Perspectives (Joint Session)-Chagas Disease and Other Infectious Cardiomyopathies: Latin America and US Perspectives (Joint Session)

Chagas Disease and Other Infectious Cardiomyopathies: Latin America and US Perspectives (Joint Session)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The presentation provided a comprehensive examination of Chagas cardiomyopathy, focusing particularly on its management within the United States, while incorporating insights from Brazil's experience with the disease. Additional topics discussed included the logistics and actions involved in electrophysiological procedures to treat ventricular tachycardia in Chagas patients. The workflow often leading straight to an epicardial approach due to the nature of the disease was highlighted, typically bypassing endocardial interventions unless absolutely necessary. The discussion also explored the role of inflammation in active cardiomyopathy, the use of anti-parasitic medications like benznidazole alongside traditional treatments such as amiodarone, and the relevance of cardiac sympathetic denervation in patients with refractory cases. The implications of the Chagasic Trial for primary prevention were discussed, particularly in the context of ICD use to reduce sudden cardiac death, revealing a 50% relative risk reduction. Aging cohorts from Latin America with longstanding residency in the U.S. were identified as key groups needing attention and screening, despite the logistical challenges and policy hurdles that impede comprehensive disease management. The talk underscored the urgent need for increased testing awareness and comprehensive strategies to manage Chagas in both endemic and non-endemic countries.

Keywords

Chagas cardiomyopathy

United States

Brazil

ventricular tachycardia

epicardial approach

inflammation

benznidazole

amiodarone

ICD

Latin America