Toxoplasma gondii Infection

Toxoplasma gondii

• Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan that can infect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans.

Mode of Transmission

• The primary mode of transmission is through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or by handling contaminated cat feces or litter.

Complications

• Potential complication of Toxoplasma gondii infection includes choroidoretinitis, which is an inflammation of the eye that can cause vision loss.

Susceptibility

• Pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer), and the elderly are most susceptible to severe Toxoplasma gondii infection.

Treatment

• The typical treatment for Toxoplasma gondii infection involves a combination of antiparasitic medications, such as pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine, and folinic acid to reduce the risk of side effects.

Toxoplasma gondii

• Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan that can infect humans and animals.

Transmission and Infection

• Primary mode of transmission: ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through contact with cat feces or contaminated soil.
• Infection can occur in humans through:
  • Ingestion of undercooked meat or contaminated food and water.
  • Contact with cat feces or contaminated soil.
  • Mother-to-fetus transmission during pregnancy.

Complications and Susceptibility

• Potential complication: encephalitis (brain infection) and eye problems.
• Most susceptible to severe infection: immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, and pregnant women.

Treatment and Host

• Typical treatment: antiparasitic drugs, such as spiramycin or pyrimethamine.
• Primary host: domestic cats and other felines.

Infection Characteristics

• Infectious stage to humans: oocysts, which are resistant to environmental stress and can survive for months.
• Characteristic in immunocompetent individuals: often asymptomatic, but may cause mild flu-like symptoms.

Pregnancy and Concerns

• Concern for pregnant women: risk of mother-to-fetus transmission, which can cause birth defects and miscarriage.