College
College of Public Health
Mentor Information
Dr. Juan David Ramirez Gonzalez
Description
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) and Chagas Disease (CD) are both tropical vector borne diseases most common in endemic regions. CL is caused by a parasite spread through sandfly bites. CD is caused by the parasite transmitted through the feces of Triatomine bugs. They are not common in non-endemic regions resulting in lack of training and knowledge required to properly diagnose and treat these diseases. This study assesses how clinician knowledge and access to diagnostic tools influence testing practices for CL and CD in non-endemic regions and contribute to diagnostic bias, underrecognition, and delayed diagnosis.
A comprehensive literature review was performed through PubMed and Google Scholar, A total of 120 articles published within the last five years were screened, with predefined inclusion and exclusion applied. Of these, a total of 50 full-text articles were selected and reviewed in full.
Across studies, key themes included limited clinician awareness, delayed diagnosis in non-endemic settings, and systemic barriers to testing. Multiple studies demonstrated moderate knowledge gaps among physicians, particularly in diagnostic methods and treatment selection. Beyond individual error, complex confirmatory testing processes and lack of formal screening pathways further delayed care. Several articles displayed that targeted educational interventions increased testing rates.
This review highlights significant systemic barriers and gaps in physician knowledge regarding CD and CL in non-endemic countries. Some countries have implemented formal policies and protocols, gaps remain. Future research should focus on educational interventions and improved screening guidelines and surveillance in non-endemic settings.
Missed Diagnoses Beyond Endemic Borders: How Knowledge and Resource Access Shape Testing for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis and Chagas Disease
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) and Chagas Disease (CD) are both tropical vector borne diseases most common in endemic regions. CL is caused by a parasite spread through sandfly bites. CD is caused by the parasite transmitted through the feces of Triatomine bugs. They are not common in non-endemic regions resulting in lack of training and knowledge required to properly diagnose and treat these diseases. This study assesses how clinician knowledge and access to diagnostic tools influence testing practices for CL and CD in non-endemic regions and contribute to diagnostic bias, underrecognition, and delayed diagnosis.
A comprehensive literature review was performed through PubMed and Google Scholar, A total of 120 articles published within the last five years were screened, with predefined inclusion and exclusion applied. Of these, a total of 50 full-text articles were selected and reviewed in full.
Across studies, key themes included limited clinician awareness, delayed diagnosis in non-endemic settings, and systemic barriers to testing. Multiple studies demonstrated moderate knowledge gaps among physicians, particularly in diagnostic methods and treatment selection. Beyond individual error, complex confirmatory testing processes and lack of formal screening pathways further delayed care. Several articles displayed that targeted educational interventions increased testing rates.
This review highlights significant systemic barriers and gaps in physician knowledge regarding CD and CL in non-endemic countries. Some countries have implemented formal policies and protocols, gaps remain. Future research should focus on educational interventions and improved screening guidelines and surveillance in non-endemic settings.
