Definition of Congenital toxoplasmosis
Congenital toxoplasmosis is a group of symptoms that occur when an unborn baby (fetus) is infected with the parasite .
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The fetus can become infected with if the mother becomes infected with toxoplasmosis during the pregnancy. The infection may spread to the fetus during the pregnancy itself, or during labor or delivery.
Symptoms
Up to half of the fetuses who become infected with toxoplasmosis during the pregnancy ae born early (prematurely). Congenital toxoplasmosis can damage the baby’s eyes, nervous system, skin, and ears.
Signs and tests
The physical examination may show signs of:
Treatment
Spiramycin can treat infection in the pregnant mother.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome depends on the severity of the congenital toxoplasmosis.
Review
Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychiatry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 5/27/2009
