Related Experiment Videos
Acquired toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis after platelet transfusions
J C Nelson1, D J Kauffmann, D Ciavarella
1Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla.
Annals of Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1989
Summary
A rare case of toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis was transmitted via platelet transfusion. This highlights a potential risk of infection from blood products, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Acquired toxoplasmosis can manifest in various forms, including retinochoroiditis.
- Platelet transfusions are a potential route for pathogen transmission.
- Immunocompromised states increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old woman with thrombocytopenia received platelet transfusions and corticosteroids.
- She subsequently developed a febrile illness consistent with typhus-like toxoplasmosis.
- Later, she presented with acute macular retinochoroiditis in the right eye.
Findings:
- Serological testing confirmed recently acquired toxoplasmosis.
- Epidemiological investigation identified the platelet transfusion as the sole probable source of infection.
- This case documents toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis transmitted by platelet transfusion.
Implications:
- Blood product safety is paramount, particularly for immunocompromised recipients.
- Clinicians should consider transfusion-transmitted infections in patients with unexplained febrile illnesses or retinochoroiditis.
- Further vigilance and screening protocols may be warranted for platelet donations.