Cholestatic jaundice due to congenital Toxoplasma gondii infection

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Parasitology

Background:

• Congenital toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection passed from mother to child during pregnancy.
• Clinical manifestations in infants can vary widely, often presenting non-specifically.
• Hepatosplenomegaly and jaundice are recognized, though less common, signs of congenital toxoplasmosis.

Observation:

• A 4-month-old infant presented with significant hepatosplenomegaly and cholestatic jaundice.
• The clinical presentation suggested a serious underlying condition requiring prompt diagnosis.
• Diagnostic workup confirmed the etiology as congenital toxoplasmosis.

Findings:

• This case represents the first reported instance of cholestatic jaundice secondary to congenital toxoplasmosis in India.
• The infant's symptoms, including liver and spleen enlargement and jaundice, were attributed to the parasitic infection.
• Laboratory and clinical findings were consistent with a severe presentation of congenital toxoplasmosis.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in congenital toxoplasmosis.
• This report expands the known clinical spectrum of congenital toxoplasmosis in neonates and infants.
• The successful treatment with sulphadiazine and pyremethamine underscores the efficacy of standard antiparasitic regimens.