Toxoplasmosis Acquired

Acquired toxoplasmosis (AT) is an infectious disease caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It develops in humans when infected through nutrition, through the skin, and sometimes also during blood transfusion and organ and tissue transplantation. Acquired toxoplasmosis can affect the nervous and lymphatic systems, eyes, skeletal muscles, myocardium and other organs.

Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite that can infect a wide range of mammals and birds, including humans. The main source of infection for humans are domestic and wild cats, which are the definitive hosts of the parasite. The parasite can reproduce inside the intestines of cats and shed oocysts in the feces. A person can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with oocysts, or through contact with contaminated soil or sand.

After infection with Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite begins active reproduction in the human body. Acute acquired toxoplasmosis can present with flu-like symptoms: fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle pain and headache. Some patients may also experience elevated liver enzymes and blood changes. Most people with acute acquired toxoplasmosis go through this phase without serious consequences.

However, in people with weakened immune systems, such as HIV-infected patients or patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, Toxoplasma gondii infection can be serious and lead to the development of chronic toxoplasmosis. In the chronic form of infection, the parasite can form cysts in various organs, including the eyes, nervous system, heart and skeletal muscles. This can lead to the development of serious complications, including inflammation of the outside of the eye, inflammation of the retina, myocarditis and myositis.

To diagnose acquired toxoplasmosis, laboratory tests are performed, including detection of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in the blood and molecular testing to detect the parasite's DNA.

Treatment of acquired toxoplasmosis usually involves the use of antiprotozoal drugs such as sulfadoxine and pyramethamine in combination with other anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory drugs, especially in severe forms of the disease and in patients with compromised immune systems.

Prevention of acquired toxoplasmosis includes practicing good hygiene when preparing food, especially when handling raw meats, fruits and vegetables, and avoiding contact with cat feces and contaminated soil. Pregnant women are advised to avoid contact with litter boxes and take precautions when handling raw foods, as Toxoplasma gondii infection can lead to serious consequences for the fetus.

Acquired toxoplasmosis is common, but most people do not show symptoms and do not need special treatment. If you have a weakened immune system or develop serious complications, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate therapy.

In conclusion, acquired toxoplasmosis is an infectious disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It can lead to various complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Compliance with precautions and timely consultation with a doctor will help prevent infection and promptly identify and treat acquired toxoplasmosis, minimizing its negative consequences.