Congenital Toxoplasma gondii infection is a medical condition that occurs when a fetus is infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite during pregnancy. The parasite can be transmitted to the developing fetus if the mother contracts the infection for the first time during her pregnancy.
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan that can be found in raw or undercooked meat, contaminated soil, and the feces of infected cats. When the mother becomes infected, the parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus, leading to congenital toxoplasmosis.
The severity of congenital toxoplasma gondii infection can vary greatly, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe complications. Infected infants may present with symptoms such as fever, jaundice, enlarged liver and spleen, rash, and eye abnormalities. In more severe cases, the infection can result in serious complications, including brain and eye damage, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and even fetal death.
To diagnose congenital toxoplasma gondii infection, doctors may perform tests such as amniocentesis to examine the presence of the parasite in the amniotic fluid or blood tests to detect specific antibodies to the parasite.
Treatment for congenital toxoplasma gondii infection typically involves a combination of anti-parasitic medications, such as pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. Early detection and prompt treatment can greatly improve the outcomes for infected infants.
Prevention strategies include avoiding raw or undercooked meat, practicing good hygiene, using gloves when handling cat litter, and avoiding contact with stray cats or their feces. Pregnant women are also advised to get screened for toxoplasmosis to detect and treat any potential infections
