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Questions and Answers
What is the main reservoir of infection for Toxoplasma gondii?
How can humans become infected with Toxoplasma gondii?
Which of the following animals are NOT typically definitive hosts for the sexual stage of Toxoplasma gondii?
What is a common route through which humans can contract Toxoplasma gondii infection?
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Which of the following is NOT a potential mode of transmission for Toxoplasma gondii to humans?
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What is the main reservoir of infection for Toxoplasma gondii?
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What is the typical manifestation of postnatal toxoplasmosis in humans?
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Which of the following is a route through which humans can contract Toxoplasma gondii infection?
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In which host cells does Toxoplasma gondii predominantly reside?
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What type of host are members of the cat family (Felidae) for Toxoplasma gondii?
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How can humans contract Toxoplasma gondii infection congenitally?
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What is a major cause of blindness and congenital defects?
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What is a potential consequence of Toxoplasma infection during the first trimester of pregnancy?
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How does Spiramicin work in the context of treating toxoplasmosis during pregnancy?
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What is a consequence of women acquiring Toxoplasma infection prior to pregnancy?
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Study Notes
Characteristics of Toxoplasma gondii
- Belongs to Kingdom Protozoa, Phylum Sporozoa, Class Coccidia
- Has a worldwide distribution, infecting a wide range of animals and birds
- Members of the cat family (Felidae) are the definitive hosts for the sexual stage
- Many mammals and birds serve as intermediate hosts
- Is an obligate intracellular parasite, found inside reticuloendothelial cells and many other nucleated cells
Transmission of Toxoplasma gondii
- Ingesting undercooked, contaminated meat, especially pork, lamb, or venison
- Accidental ingestion of oocysts from contaminated soil, cat feces, or water
- Congenital transmission from an infected mother to her fetus
- Organ transplantation or blood transfusion from an infected donor
Life Cycle of Toxoplasma gondii
- Not explicitly stated in the provided text, but it can be inferred that it involves a complex cycle involving cat hosts, intermediate hosts, and transmission routes
Pathogenesis of Toxoplasma gondii
- Most infections in humans are asymptomatic
- Can produce either congenital or postnatal toxoplasmosis
- Congenital infection can lead to stillbirths, chorioretinitis, intracerebral calcifications, and hydrocephaly or microcephaly
- Postnatal toxoplasmosis is usually less severe, with common manifestations being lymphadenopathy
- In immunosuppressed individuals, it can cause retinitis, encephalitis, pneumonitis, or other conditions
- Tachyzoite directly destroys cells, and local hypersensitivity reaction can cause inflammation, blockage of blood vessels, and cell death near the damaged cyst
Epidemiology and Control of Toxoplasma gondii
- Avoidance of human contact with cat feces is important in control
- Pregnant women should avoid all contact with cats
- Raw or undercooked meat is a significant source of human exposure, and proper cooking or freezing can provide sterilization
- Periodic serologic screening for IgG and IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma is recommended
Diagnosis and Treatment of Toxoplasma gondii
- Infection can be identified with serologic testing, amniocentesis, PCR, or abnormal ultrasound findings
- Treatment includes Pyrimethamine (Daraprim), sulphadiazine, and folinic acid
- Spiramicin is used for treatment of acute acquired toxoplasmosis in pregnancy to prevent transmission to the fetus
- No killed vaccine is currently available
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Description
Learn about Toxoplasma gondii, a parasitic protozoan belonging to the Kingdom Protozoa. Understand its distribution, hosts, and habitat.
