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