12 Questions
What is a common way for pregnant women to be infected with Toxoplasma gondii?
By consuming undercooked or raw meat containing tissue cysts
What is the main risk group for toxoplasmosis in terms of severity of symptoms?
Immunocompromised individuals
What is the characteristic lesion found on an MRI in patients with toxoplasmosis?
Ring-enhancing lesions
What is the role of sulfadiazine in toxoplasmosis treatment?
It is used in combination with pyrimethamine for treatment
What is the significance of the TORCH infection in toxoplasmosis?
It is a group of infections that can cross the placental barrier
What is the recommended prophylaxis for immunocompromised individuals with a CD4 count less than 100 and IgG positive for toxoplasmosis?
TMP/SMX
How can Toxoplasma gondii be transmitted from an infected animal to a human?
Through consumption of raw or undercooked meat containing tissue cysts
What is the primary concern for pregnant women in relation to Toxoplasma gondii?
Risk of transmission to the fetus
What is the characteristic feature of chorioretinitis in Toxoplasma gondii infection?
White lesions on the retina
What is the primary role of pyrimethamine in the treatment of Toxoplasma gondii infection?
To kill the parasite
Why is it recommended for immunocompromised individuals to take prophylaxis against Toxoplasma gondii infection?
To prevent reactivation of the infection
What is the significance of a positive IgG test result in Toxoplasma gondii infection?
It indicates immunity to the infection
Study Notes
Toxoplasma Gondii
- Can be transmitted through consumption of raw or undercooked meat containing tissue cysts, contaminated water, and from mother to fetus in utero.
- Pregnant women are at risk due to transplacental transfer.
Transmission and Prevention
- Pregnant women should avoid changing kitty litter boxes to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Oocytes in contaminated eggs can also cause transmission.
- Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV, are at risk.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
- Toxoplasma encephalitis can cause ring-enhancing lesions on MRI.
- Biopsy needle can be used to differentiate from CNS lymphoma.
- Clinical symptoms may not be present in healthy individuals.
Complications
- Toxoplasmosis can cause choroidoretinitis, deafness, brain calcifications, cranial calcifications, seizures, and hydrocephalus.
Treatment and Prophylaxis
- Sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine are used to treat toxoplasmosis.
- TMP/SMX is used for prophylaxis in individuals with CD4 counts less than 100 who are positive for IgG for toxo.
- Prophylaxis is recommended for individuals with CD4 counts less than 100 who are positive for IgG for toxo.
Toxoplasma Gondii
- Can be transmitted through consumption of raw or undercooked meat containing tissue cysts, contaminated water, and from mother to fetus in utero.
- Pregnant women are at risk due to transplacental transfer.
Transmission and Prevention
- Pregnant women should avoid changing kitty litter boxes to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Oocytes in contaminated eggs can also cause transmission.
- Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV, are at risk.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
- Toxoplasma encephalitis can cause ring-enhancing lesions on MRI.
- Biopsy needle can be used to differentiate from CNS lymphoma.
- Clinical symptoms may not be present in healthy individuals.
Complications
- Toxoplasmosis can cause choroidoretinitis, deafness, brain calcifications, cranial calcifications, seizures, and hydrocephalus.
Treatment and Prophylaxis
- Sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine are used to treat toxoplasmosis.
- TMP/SMX is used for prophylaxis in individuals with CD4 counts less than 100 who are positive for IgG for toxo.
- Prophylaxis is recommended for individuals with CD4 counts less than 100 who are positive for IgG for toxo.
Learn about the transmission and risks of Toxoplasma gondii, a parasitic infection that can affect pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
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