Linking Trypanosoma cruzi to Achalasia Symptoms
Infection by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi is the cause of Chagas disease. A significant complication of chronic Chagas disease involves the destruction of autonomic nerve ganglia, particularly those controlling the digestive tract.
Damage to the nerve plexus (Auerbach's plexus) in the oesophageal wall by Trypanosoma cruzi leads to:
- Impaired peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food down).
- Failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) to relax properly during swallowing.
These oesophageal dysmotility issues result in a condition called megaoesophagus, which presents symptoms clinically indistinguishable from primary achalasia of the oesophagus.
Excluding Other Pathogens
The other options are incorrect because:
- Schistosoma haematobium causes schistosomiasis, mainly affecting the urinary system.
- Mycobacterium leprae causes leprosy, impacting skin and peripheral nerves.
- Plasmodium falciparum causes malaria, primarily affecting red blood cells.
These organisms do not cause oesophageal conditions mimicking achalasia.
Important Questions from Protozoal Infections
Which of the following pharmacological agents can be used for the treatment of visceral Leishmaniasis?
1. Pentavalent antimonials
2. Amphotericin B
3. Spiramycin
4. Paromomycin
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- The Sabin-Feldman dye test is an indirect fluorescent antibody test which is used to detect antibodies against which of the following organisms?
Consider the following statements with regard to giardiasis :
1. Stools should be examined for cysts at 2-3 days interval for its diagnosis.
2. Colonoscopy aspirate gives the highest diagnostic yield.
3. Infection usually occurs by ingesting contaminated water.
4. Giardia has a flagellate trophozoite form.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- Which one of the following diseases is NOT caused by protozoa?
- Bite of the Tsetse Fly transmits:
