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Toxoplasmosis
Medical Questions » Toxoplasmosis
| Name: Toxoplasmosis |
| Also known as: |
| Parasitic infestation of the intestine. |
Causes of Toxoplasmosis
The single-celled animal Toxoplasma gondii which is found world-wide as a parasite of cats, other animals and birds, from whom it may spread to humans. The eggs pass out in the faeces of the animal and may then enter a human mouth (eg. after careless handling of cat litter, or soil contamination of fingers or food). Once in the gut, the microscopic egg hatches and multiplies into millions of single-celled animals. |
Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis
Often so mild that they are ignored, but in severe cases a low-grade fever, tiredness, muscle aches, joint pains, headache, sore throat, a mild rash and enlarged lymph nodes may occur. In rare severe cases, the liver, spleen, lungs, eye, heart and brain may be involved. |
Tests for Toxoplasmosis
Detected by a specific blood test. |
Treatment for Toxoplasmosis
Normally none necessary. If symptoms are significant or complications develop, medications are available (eg. pyrimethamine) to destroy the parasite. No vaccination or other form of prevention available. Pregnant women should not associate closely with cats.
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Complications of Toxoplasmosis of its treatment
In pregnant women the infestation may cause miscarriages, still birth, and deformities in the baby (eg. small head, hydrocephalus, mental retardation, fits, blindness). |
Likely Outcome of Toxoplasmosis
Patients usually recover without treatment in four to eight weeks. |
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