Work

A case of megacolon in Rio Grande Valley as a possible case of Chagas disease

Year: 2003

Type: article

Abstract: We have been searching for evidence of Chagas disease in mummified human remains. Specifically, we have looked for evidence of alteration of intestinal or fecal morphology consistent with megacolon, a condition associated with Chagas disease. One prehistoric individual recovered from the Chihuahuan Desert near the Rio Grande exhibits such pathology. We present documentation of this case. We are certain that this individual presents a profoundly altered large intestinal tract and we suggest that further research should focus on confirmation of a diagnosis of Chagas disease. We propose that the prehistoric activity and dietary patterns in Chihuahua Desert hunter/gatherers promoted the pathoecology of Chagas disease.

Source: Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz

DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762003000900025

Authors: Karl Reinhard, T Michael Fink, Jack Skiles

Institutions: University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Arizona Department of Health Services, Texas Department of State Health Services

Language: English

Topic: Paleopathology and ancient diseases

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: US-UK Fulbright Commission