[Acute spinal amyotrophy in toxoplasmosis]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic protozoan parasite that can cause severe neurological complications in immunocompetent individuals.
• Acute anterior horn cell syndromes, such as those affecting the cervical spinal cord, can result from various infectious agents.
• Cervical spinal cord involvement presents with distinct neurological deficits, impacting motor function.

Observation:

• A 19-year-old male presented with an acute neurological syndrome affecting the anterior horn of the cervical spinal cord.
• The patient's symptoms occurred during a primary infection (primo-infection) with Toxoplasma gondii.
• Clinical presentation indicated significant motor impairment due to spinal cord involvement.

Findings:

• The neurological syndrome was diagnosed as being directly related to toxoplasmosis.
• Treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole at a dosage of 1600 mg/day was initiated.
• The patient received a three-month course of antibiotic therapy.

Implications:

• This case highlights toxoplasmosis as a potential cause of acute anterior horn cell syndrome.
• Complete regression of neurological symptoms following trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole treatment suggests its efficacy.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in toxoplasma-induced neurological disorders.