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TOXOPLASMOSIS

Toxoplasmosis is an infection in the eye caused by one of the world’s most common parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. Toxoplasmosis is a common disease and the most common cause of eye inflammation in the world. Infections can occur from eating contaminated meat, exposure from infected cat feces or from mother to child during pregnancy.

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Symptoms

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  • Flu-like symptoms

  • Body aches

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Headache

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

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People with weakened immune systems

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For people who have HIV/AIDS, are receiving chemotherapy treatment or have had an organ transplant, you may develop more severe symptoms as the toxoplasma infection may reoccur. Symptoms include:​

Toxoplasmosis.jpg

“This image was originally published in the Retina Image Bank® website.

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​Author: Henry J Kaplan, MD. Toxoplasma Retinochoroiditis. Retina Image Bank. 2013; 4896. © the American Society of Retina Specialists."

  • Headache

  • Confusion

  • Poor coordination

  • Seizures

  • Lung problems that may resemble Tuberculosis or Pneumocystis Jiroveci Pneumonia

  • Blurred vision

Pregnancy

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If during your pregnancy you become infected with Toxoplasmosis you may pass this onto your baby. Your baby is at greater risk if you become infected during the third trimester and least at risk if you become infected during the first trimester. Many early infections can result in still birth or miscarriage. Infants that survive are likely to be born with serious problems such as seizures, enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice and severe eye infections.

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Causes of Toxoplasmosis

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  • Contact with cat feces that is infected with the parasite

  • Contaminated food or drink such as lamb, pork, and unpasteurized dairy products

  • Contaminated knives or utensils that have come into contact with raw meat.

  • Unwashed fruits and vegetables

  • Infected organ transplant or transfused blood

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Treatments

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Blood tests can be conducted if it is suspected that you are suffering from Toxoplasmosis.

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Treatment will not normally be needed in people with a normally functioning immune system and mild symptoms that do not show signs of damaging the function of the eye. In most case symptoms resolve themselves within 4-8 weeks.

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For more severe cases in which there is a potential for vision loss, treatment may involve the use of anti-parasitic medications, steroids, and antibiotics.

To learn more about treatment options or any concerns you may have relating to Toxoplasmosis please schedule a visit with Dr El Annan at the Annan Retina Eye Center. Please call 346-22A-NNAN to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to help you.

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