Haptoglobin genotypes in Chagas' disease.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the existence of an association between haptoglobin (Hp) genotypes and the severity of heart complications in Chagas' disease.


METHODS
Hp genotyping was performed by PCR in 107 Brazilian patients sub-classified in asymptomatic, with mild heart disease and with severe heart disease.


RESULTS
Multiple logistic regression (R(2)=24%) indicated that patients with the Hp1-1 genotype have lower probability of developing the severe heart complications.


CONCLUSIONS
The Hp polymorphism may influence the clinical evolution of Chagas' disease.
Jorge
Susan E D C
SE
Department of Clinical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas-UNICAMP, São Paulo, Brazil.
Abreu
Cristina Feix
CF
Guariento
Maria Elena
ME
Sonati
Maria de Fatima
Mde F
D000818:Animals; D001938:Brazil; D002598:Chagas Cardiomyopathy / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology; D014355:Chagas Disease / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics*; D005838:Genotype; D006242:Haptoglobins / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors
D006242:Haptoglobins