congenital toxoplasmosis
(Diseases)
On this page, you will find everythingToxoplasma gondiiyou need to know about Congenital Toxoplasmosis.
What is Congenital Toxoplasmosis?
Congenital toxoplasmosis, also known as congenital cat disease or simply toxoplasmosis, is an illness that results from fetal infection during pregnancy by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. This parasite is commonly found in cat feces and undercooked or raw meat. The infection can be transmitted from an infected pregnant mother to her fetus through the placenta. While the infection may be mild or asymptomatic in the mother, who often remains unaware of it, it can cause serious complications and birth defects in the fetus, especially if the infection occurs during early pregnancy.
- What Are the Symptoms of Congenital Toxoplasmosis?
- Symptoms in the fetus or newborn can vary and may include:
- Enlarged liver andspleen.
- Skin rash, including small red spots or bruising at birth.
- Hearing loss.
- Feeding difficulties.
Premature birth.
Unusually large orToxoplasma gondiismall head size.
- What Causes Congenital Toxoplasmosis?
- The primary cause of congenital toxoplasmosis is infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. Other sources or modes of transmission include:
- Eating food contaminated with the parasite, such as raw or undercooked meat.
- Handling infected cat feces while cleaning a litter box.
Drinking contaminated water.
Transmission from an infected pregnant woman to her fetus via the placenta.
- How is Congenital Toxoplasmosis Diagnosed?
- Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may be required depending on the clinical scenario, such as:
- During pregnancy:
- Amniotic fluid analysis and fetal blood tests.
- Measurement of antibody levels.
- Ultrasound imaging of the abdomen.
- After birth, diagnostic tests forCTthe infant may include:
- Testing antibodies in umbilical cordMRIblood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- CT scan of the brain.
- MRI scan of the brain.
- Neurological assessments.
Ophthalmological exam (eye exam).
Blood tests to detect the parasite.
- How is Congenital Toxoplasmosis Treated?
- Treatment depends on the situation and may include:
- Administering antiparasitic medications to the pregnant mother reduces the risk of fetal transmission.
If fetal infection is confirmed, antiparasitic medications are prescribed for the fetus.
Infected newborns are treated with antiparasitic drugs, often requiring a long-term treatment course.
- How Can Congenital Toxoplasmosis Be Prevented?
- Prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding raw or undercooked meat.
- Avoiding contact with cat litter or using gloves when handling it.
- Washing hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or soil.
- Screening pregnant women early for infection.
Washing and peeling fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Avoiding the consumption of potentially contaminated water.
- Complications may include:
- Miscarriage.
- Stillbirth.
- Permanent brain damage (intellectual disability).
- Developmental delays, whether cognitive or motor.
Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain).
Seizures.
- When Should You See a Doctor?
- It is recommended to seek medical advice if:
- A woman is planning to become pregnant or is pregnant and has been exposed to risk factors.
Toxoplasmosis infection is confirmed or suspected during pregnancy.
- A newborn shows signs or complications that may be related to congenital toxoplasmosis.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Should we get rid of our cats to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis?
No. Although cats can transmit the parasite responsible for the disease through their feces, you can keep your cat while taking the preventive measures mentioned above to avoid infection.
