Toxoplasmosis in Pregnancy

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a rare but important infection in pregnant women which can potentially cause serious fetal adverse effects. Methods of screening, diagnosing and treating toxoplasmosis in pregnancy have been evaluated for over four decades now but still, there is a lack of robust evidence in these areas to guide care plans. Yet with the advent of newer techniques in imaging and laboratory diagnosis, reasonable protocols can be formulated to optimally mange cases with toxoplasmosis in pregnancy. It is becoming increasingly evident that antenatal treatment definitely helps in reducing fetal and hence neonatal morbidity from this infection. Timely identification and adequate therapy to prevent vertical transmission or even treat infected fetuses seem to be a practical approach. Most importantly, health education and public awareness will help reduce the infection rates in pregnant women.

Keywords

Toxoplasmosis - Pregnancy - Fetal infection - Congenital toxoplasmosis - Antenatal infection - Prenatal diagnosis

Publication History

Received: 21 July 2019

Accepted: 23 October 2019

Article published online:
05 May 2023