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Updated: Aug 2, 2026

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3-D Imaging and Analysis of Neurons Infected In Vivo with Toxoplasma gondii
Published on: December 9, 2014
[Acquired toxoplasmic chorioretinitis with a late onset]
Summary
Maternal toxoplasma infection during pregnancy caused congenital toxoplasmosis in an infant. Ocular impairment in the mother, diagnosed five years later, was also linked to toxoplasmosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Congenital toxoplasmosis can result from maternal infection during pregnancy.
- Serologic data and parasite isolation confirmed maternal toxoplasmosis acquired during the fifth month of gestation.
- This case highlights the potential for delayed manifestations of the disease.
Observation:
- An infant presented with congenital toxoplasmosis, exhibiting ocular and cerebral symptoms.
- Five years post-delivery, the mother developed progressive chorioretinitis.
- Analysis of aqueous humor confirmed the toxoplasma origin of the mother's ocular condition.
Findings:
- Maternal toxoplasmosis acquired during pregnancy led to congenital toxoplasmosis in the infant.
- The mother's ocular injury, diagnosed years later, was also attributed to toxoplasmosis.
- This case underscores the long-term sequelae of toxoplasma infection.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and management of maternal toxoplasmosis are crucial to prevent congenital infections.
- Ophthalmologists should consider toxoplasmosis in cases of unexplained chorioretinitis, even years after potential exposure.
- Further research into the long-term ocular manifestations of toxoplasmosis is warranted.
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