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Toxoplasmosis

Information from the Medical Directory health library.

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This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.

Overview

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite *Toxoplasma gondii*, often transmitted through undercooked meat or contact with cat feces.

Symptoms

Flu-like symptoms: fever, muscle aches, fatigue Swollen lymph nodes Headache Eye inflammation in severe cases Often asymptomatic in healthy individuals

Causes

Ingesting undercooked contaminated meat Contact with infected cat feces Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy Blood transfusion or organ transplantation (rare)

Diagnosis

Blood tests for Toxoplasma antibodies PCR testing for parasite DNA Eye exams if ocular involvement suspected

Treatment

Medications: pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine, and folinic acid Symptomatic treatment for mild cases Special care during pregnancy to prevent congenital infection

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