[Proportion of Trypanosoma cruzi serologies in pregnant women from endemic areas before and after the implementation of automated screening at Hospital Infanta Sofía (Madrid, Spain) between 2016 and 2020].

Abstract

Objective: Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic in many Latin American countries but has become a global health concern due to increasing migration. Vertical transmission, particularly in non-endemic regions, underscores the importance of proper screening in pregnant women to enable early treatment of infected newborns and prevent long-term complications. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of Chagas serological screening in pregnant women before and after the implementation of an automated screening system at Hospital Universitario Infanta Sofía in Madrid (Spain), and to assess its impact on detection rates.

Methods: We conducted an observational, descriptive-analytical, retrospective, cross-sectional study through the analysis and comparison of two defined time periods: before and after automation. Serological testing for T. cruzi was performed using a chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 28.0.1.1, with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results: A total of 736 women from World Health Organization-defined Chagas-endemic regions gave birth at the hospital during the study periods. Of these, 283 (38,2%) underwent screening. A statistically significant increase in screening was observed after the implementation of automation (from 0.5% in the first period to 76.4% in the second; p<0.001). Two positive cases of Chagas disease were detected, both during the second period, with no evidence of congenital transmission.

Conclusions: The growing number of women of reproductive age migrating from endemic areas highlights the need for national policies ensuring universal Chagas screening during pregnancy, including at delivery, to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of congenital cases.