Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Risks, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Clinical Manifestations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18041/2390-0512/biociencias.2.13672Keywords:
zoonosis, vertical transmission, congenital toxoplasmosis, pregnancy, epidemiology, prevention, public healthAbstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite of the Apicomplexa family. Its life cycle involves definitive hosts, such as felines, and intermediate hosts, including humans. Infection can be acquired through the ingestion of contaminated meat, exposure to environmental oocysts, blood transfusions, or vertical transmission. In immunocompetent individuals, the disease is usually asymptomatic; however, in immunocompromised patients or pregnant women, it can lead to severe complications. Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) is one of the most serious forms, as it may cause severe neurological and ophthalmological damage in the fetus. Despite its impact, knowledge about risk factors and prevention remains insufficient. This review analyzes the epidemiology, prevalence, clinical manifestations, and associated risks of toxoplasmosis acquired during pregnancy and congenital toxoplasmosis.
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