A history of Trypanosoma cruzi screening in domestic dogs throughout the Americas – A systematic review

Abstract

Chagas disease is a known killer of humans and other species ranging from South America north into the United States with an estimated 6–7 million human infections globally. Interest in canine Chagas disease has been high since its discovery in 1909 due to the intertwined relationships between humans and domestic dogs but no agency exists that records or tracks canine infections. A systematic review was conducted with the objectives of compiling and examining all available data originally in English, Spanish or Portuguese containing raw numbers referencing a screening effort in naturally infected or exposed domestic dogs from the Americas since its discovery. A total of 170 publications were identified and included for review. Study areas, sample groups, infection rates, methods of diagnosis, and demographics were discussed for comparison and historical perspective. The passage of time has seen numerous advances in diagnostic methods and the promise of effective treatment options, for humans and dogs, but there is still a long way to go in establishing standard diagnostic methods and providing clinically accessible treatment options.