Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is zoonotic by Toxoplasma gondii; mostly latent in humans. Complex non-specific symptoms; eyes/brain/heart/liver/nodes. Congenital infection = severe teratogenicity (10× higher risk); one of the most severe congenital infections; closely linked to AIDS.

Common Symptoms

Coma; lymphadenopathy; hepatosplenomegaly; pleural effusion; visual disturbance; pericarditis; abdominal pain; meningeal signs; altered consciousness

Causes and Pathogenesis

Toxoplasma infection only. Local replication → lymph nodes → blood/lymph to other organs. Intra-nuclear replication until cell rupture → spread to adjacent cells → necrosis + acute inflammation (edema, mononuclear/few polynuclear infiltrate). Ingestion of undercooked contaminated food/water. Transplacental transmission.

Treatment

Drug, symptomatic, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

Control infected cats; serology in pregnancy; therapeutic abortion if first-trimester; treat mid/late; no blood/organ from seropositive donors. Avoid cat contact; prevent fecal contamination; no raw/undercooked meat/milk/eggs; hygiene.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Infectious Diseases department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.