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A Headache and an Abscess: A Case of Cerebral Toxoplasmosis
Muhammad Ghazi Khan1, Alex James Francis Fischer1, Makenzie Dye1
1General Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, USA.
Abstract:
Cerebral toxoplasmosis is a rare cause of brain abscesses, but it occurs more commonly in immunocompromised individuals. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can minimize associated neurologic mortality. When a patient presents with vague symptoms, it is important to continue gathering the patient's medical history and perform a thorough workup. This report describes a case of a 51-year-old Haitian woman who presented with seizure-like activity. Brain imaging revealed ring-enhancing lesions, leading to a new diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as the cause of her immunocompromised state. Her care necessitated an interpreter, as well as a multidisciplinary team of specialists to diagnose, treat, and provide the best care.
Insights
Cerebral toxoplasmosis, a rare cause of brain abscesses, is more common in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Cerebral toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection causing brain abscesses, predominantly affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- Vague presenting symptoms necessitate thorough medical history and diagnostic workup for accurate diagnosis.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a primary risk factor for cerebral toxoplasmosis.
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