Bohorquez LC, Schijman AG, Perez F, Coto H, Marchiol A, Pinazo M-J. BMC Infectious Diseases 2026,26(Suppl 1):1160 doi.org/10.1186/s12879-026-13565-3
Summary: Streamlining diagnostic methods and evaluating and developing point-of-care diagnostics are priority actions for the elimination of Chagas disease by 2030. The authors of this manuscript convened 44 researchers, test developers, and health authorities to provide scientific advice and reach consensus on (i) a harmonized protocol for evaluation of rapid diagnostic tests; (ii) preferred molecular diagnostics characteristics (scope, performance, operational features, pricing, and evaluation standards); and (iii) economic impact evidence needed to have a transformational impact in primary healthcare. The outcomes of this work provide a reference on practical applications and recommendations to promote test development and evaluation. The appropriate approach to meet the diagnostic gap was debated and ways to stimulate investments were proposed.