Characterization of the subjects included for screening of TcG1-,TcG2-, and TcG4-specific antibody responses in this study.

aSubjects in Argentina were screened for T. cruzi-specific antibodies by Wiener Chagatest-ELISA and Wiener Chagatest-HAI kits. Clinical exam included physical exam, electrocardiography and echocardiography. Confirmation of leishmaniasis was obtained by parasitological test, Montenegro reaction, clinical demonstration, and two PCR approaches. One of the seropositive patient presenting acute infection was referred for chemotherapeutic treatment with Benznidazole.
bFive of the seropositive/chagasic subjects from Argentina were positive for Leishmania infection, determined by two PCR approaches.
cSera samples from Chiapas Mexico were screened by epimastigote antigenic lysate-based ELISA, trypomastigote-based flow cytometry, and Chagas Stat-Pak immuno-chromatograpic test.
dSeronegative subjects from non-endemic areas were screened for T. cruzi-specific antibody response using T. cruzi trypomastigote lysate as antigen source in ELISA assays. Seronegative/cardiomyopathy patients were identified based upon blood levels of NT-proBNP to be >2000 pg/ml (normal<450 pg/ml).
N/A: not available.