Abstract
Acute infection of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy is detrimental to the developing fetus. In the United States, approximately 1 in 10,000 live births are affected by congenital toxoplasmosis. Although multifactorial in etiology, maternal infection is primarily attributed to the consumption of contaminated meat or water. Infection and transmission to the fetus may result in devastating neurologic impairment. Screening methods for all pregnant women should be implemented in routine prenatal care. This article will highlight the inherent dangers of congenital toxoplasmosis, while including general care of the fetus for prevention of transmission, medical management, and long-term outcomes.
MeSH terms
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Antiparasitic Agents / pharmacology*
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Disease Management
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Female
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Humans
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Infant, Newborn
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Pregnancy
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Pregnancy Complications, Infectious* / diagnosis
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Pregnancy Complications, Infectious* / microbiology
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Pregnancy Complications, Infectious* / physiopathology
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Pregnancy Complications, Infectious* / therapy
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Pregnancy Outcome
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Prenatal Diagnosis / methods
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Preventive Health Services / methods
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Toxoplasma* / isolation & purification
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Toxoplasma* / physiology
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Toxoplasmosis / diagnosis
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Toxoplasmosis / etiology
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Toxoplasmosis / physiopathology
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Toxoplasmosis / therapy
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Toxoplasmosis, Congenital* / diagnosis
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Toxoplasmosis, Congenital* / etiology
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Toxoplasmosis, Congenital* / physiopathology
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Toxoplasmosis, Congenital* / prevention & control