Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of Chagas disease as an opportunistic infection in AIDS, elucidate critical gaps in the literature, and outline priorities for future clinical research. RECENT FINDINGS: New promising tools for diagnosis include T. cruzi loop-mediated isothermal amplification, a non-invasive Chunap urine antigen test, and rRNA sequencing. People living with AIDS may benefit from sequential quantitative PCR testing for early detection of reactivation. This method is also a promising tool for treatment response monitoring. Prompt antitrypanosomal treatment and antiretrovirals are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality. Several novel compounds and repurposed agents have shown preliminary activity against T. cruzi. Secondary prophylaxis may not be necessary, as relapse rarely occurs in patients on antiretrovirals. SUMMARY: Although primarily endemic to South America, increasing global migration has increased the prevalence of HIV/T. cruzi coinfection in non-endemic regions. Early recognition, timely treatment, and prevention strategies are crucial to reducing associated morbidity and mortality.