Curriculum · ENT, Ophthalmology, and Dermatology
Ocular toxoplasmosis
What it is
Toxoplasmosis is a protozoal infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii protozoa. In the eye it takes the form of focal, gray-yellow-white chorioretinal lesions with surrounding vasculitis and vitreous infiltration, that is, vitreous cells. It comes in two forms: congenital, which is transplacental, and acquired.
Causes and risk
The acquired form is transmitted through raw meat and cat feces. Transmission is also put as poorly cooked meats and contaminated vegetables.
How it presents
The congenital form more often causes visual impairment, because it is more likely to involve the macula. Congenital toxoplasmosis carries a triad of chorioretinitis, hydrocephalus and intracranial calcifications, and it may also bring hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice, rash, severe neurological deficits and thrombocytopenic purpura.