Toxoplasmosis (patient information)

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Overview
Toxoplasmosis is an infection due to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii.

What are the symptoms of Toxoplasmosis?
Most primary infections produce no symptoms. The time between exposure to the parasite and symptom development is 1 - 2 weeks. The disease can affect the brain, lung, heart, eyes, or liver. Symptoms in persons with otherwise healthy immune systems: Symptoms in immunosuppressed persons: For symptoms in babies born with the condition, see congenital toxoplasmosis.
 * Enlarged lymph nodes in the head and neck
 * Headache
 * Mild illness with fever, similar to mononucleosis
 * Muscle pain
 * Sore throat
 * Confusion
 * Fever
 * Headache
 * Retinal inflammation that causes blurred vision
 * Seizures

Who is at highest risk?
Toxoplasmosis is found in humans worldwide, and in many species of animals and birds. Cats are the definitive host of the parasite. Human infection may result from: Toxoplasmosis also affects people who have weakened immune systems. The infection may also be passed from an infected mother to her baby through the placenta.
 * Blood transfusions or solid organ transplants
 * Carelessly handling cat litter, which can lead to accidental consumption of infectious particles
 * Eating contaminated soil
 * Eating raw or undercooked meat (lamb, pork, and beef)

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of toxoplasmosis. This disorder requires urgent or emergency care if it occurs in an immunosuppressed person or in a baby, or if confusion, seizures, or other severe symptoms develop.

Diagnosis
Tests to determine infection or to find cysts related to this infection:
 * Antibody titers for toxoplasmosis
 * Cranial CT scan
 * MRI of head
 * Slit lamp exam
 * Brain biopsy

Treatment options
Those without symptoms typically do not need treatment. Medications to treat the infection include an antimalarial drug and antibiotics. AIDS patients should continue treatment for as long as their immune system is weak to prevent the disease from reactivating. For information regarding treatment of babies and pregnant women

Where to find medical care for Toxoplasmosis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Toxoplasmosis

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Acute infection in children may cause swelling of the retina in the eye. In adults with a healthy immune system, toxoplasmosis has a good outcome.

Possible complications

 * Permanent disability, such as blindness or learning disorders, in infants with congenital toxoplasmosis
 * Return of the disease
 * Spread of infection in a person with a weakened immune system (can be deadly)