Atypical Bilateral Multifocal Congenital Toxoplasmosis Retinochoroiditis: Case Report With Literature Review.

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis gondii is ubiquitously present on earth and infection, including congenital infection, is common. Neurological, developmental, and ocular effects can be devastating in the congenital toxoplasmosis population. At present, there is no standard, nation-wide neonatal screening for this disease in the United States. CASE PRESENTATION: A 17-month-old Caucasian female presented to our institution by way of referral for macular scarring. She was diagnosed with intrauterine growth retardation and born with low birth weight and microcephaly at an outside institution, but no systemic workup was conducted at that time. On ocular examination, she was found to have nystagmus and extensive multifocal chorioretinal pigmented scars involving the macula and peripheral retina in both eyes with fibrous vitreous strands extending between scars in the right eye. Toxoplasmosis immunoglobulin G was found to be highly positive. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed supratentorial intracranial calcifications. CONCLUSIONS: Our patient presented with severe chorioretinal lesions, microcephaly, and nystagmus with a positive immunoglobulin G toxoplasmosis titer. She did not receive any evaluation, including TORCH infectious panel workup, on being born with low birth weight and microcephaly. There are currently no national programs in place for toxoplasmosis to be included in routine neonatal screening, despite the grave sequelae of congenital infection or that studies in other countries have shown cost-effectiveness in early screening and treatment.

A case of congenital toxoplasmosis-associated miscarriage with maternal infection four months prior to conception.

BACKGROUND: We report a case of fatal congenital toxoplasmosis with maternal infection dated four months before pregnancy in the absence of any specific immunosuppressive condition. CASE: Ms. D. experienced submaxillary lymphadenitis in February 2018. The medical workup performed revealed an acute T. gondii infection. She became pregnant in June 2018 while she still had adenopathy. The second obstetrical ultrasound, performed at 16 weeks of pregnancy, revealed a fetal death. The research for T. gondii by PCR was positive in the products of conception. CONCLUSION: Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis should be discussed in case of miscarriage with lymphadenitis. As lymph nodes in T. gondii infection could be responsible for iterative release of parasites and fetal death, symptomatic toxoplasmosis should be treated in women of childbearing age.

Overlapping Spectrum of Retinochoroidal Scarring in Congenital Zika Virus and Toxoplasmosis Infections.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Antenatal Zika virus (ZIKV) or toxoplasmosis infections may present with isolated eye abnormalities with absence of other apparent birth defects. The purpose of this article is to discuss the overlapping spectrum of clinical presentation and retinochoroidal scarring in congenital ZIKV and toxoplasmosis infections. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prenatal ultrasound abnormalities seen from antenatal ZIKV and toxoplasmosis infections overlap and may include intracranial calcifications, microcephaly, and intrauterine growth restriction. The clinical spectrum of both infections in less severely affected infants and children may include nonspecific neurological impairment such as developmental delay and seizures. RESULTS: Inherent limitations in serological testing pose additional barriers in establishing a diagnosis. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) mottling in ZIKV infection can occur in isolation or adjacent to retinochoroidal atrophy. In contrast, RPE mottling outside of the borders of retinochoroidal atrophy is not typically seen in toxoplasmosis. To date, postnatal reactivation of congenital eye lesions as seen in toxoplasmosis have not been reported with ZIKV infection. CONCLUSIONS: As children infected with congenital ZIKV grow older, subclinical eye abnormalities may be indistinguishable from toxoplasmosis. Brazil has had high prevalence of both diseases with long-term information available on toxoplasmosis only. Surveillance guidelines for asymptomatic eye abnormalities will likely evolve. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:779-784.].

Hearing Disorders in Congenital Toxoplasmosis: A Literature Review

Abstract Introduction Several studies show correlations between congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing loss, with a broad diversity of levels of hearing loss and specifications of hearing disorders. Objective To describe the studies found in the literature regarding hearing disorders in congenital toxoplasmosis. Data Synthesis A literature review was conducted on the Lilacs, SciELO, PubMed and Scopus databases by combining the following keywords: congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing. Based on this search strategy, 152 papers were found, the majority published on the Scopus and PubMed databases from1958 to 2015. After theapplication of the inclusion criteria, 8 articles published between 1980 and 2015 were included in the present study. Conclusion This review showed a moderate evidence of the association between hearing disorders and congenital toxoplasmosis, which is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss. However, there are gaps in the description of the specific characteristics of the type and level of hearing loss, or of other possible disorders involved in the auditory processing.

[DRESS complicated by hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in an infant treated for congenital toxoplasmosis]. / DRESS compliqué d'un syndrome d'activation macrophagique chez un nourrisson traité pour une toxoplasmose congénitale.

BACKGROUND: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe disease that may be complicated by hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis but this is rarely described in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We report the case of a 5-week old infant hospitalized in a pediatric intensive care unit for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with prolonged fever, splenomegaly, cytopenia, fibrinogen≤1.5g/L, ferritin≥500µg/L, and soluble IL-2 receptor≥2400U/mL. As a result of the presence of a diffuse skin rash, eosinophilia and multiple organ failure that started three weeks after the initiation of a congenital toxoplasmosis treatment, association with DRESS was suggested. DISCUSSION: Exposure to sulfadiazine remains the main factor leading to DRESS in this case. This is probably the trigger event, secondarily complicated by hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, although in our case the diagnosis was made subsequently. The unfortunately poor outcome of this association is probably exacerbated in fragile patients such as young infants. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of DRESS of every early onset associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis linked to a treatment started during the neonatal period to avoid any delay in care that might adversely affect the prognosis.

Report of an unsual case of anophthalmia and craniofacial cleft in a newborn with Toxoplasma gondii congenital infection.

BACKGROUND: We present one unusual case of anophthalmia and craniofacial cleft, probably due to congenital toxoplasmosis only. CASE PRESENTATION: A two-month-old male had a twin in utero who disappeared between the 7th and the 14th week of gestation. At birth, the baby presented anophthalmia and craniofacial cleft, and no sign compatible with genetic or exposition/deficiency problems, like the Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome or maternal vitamin A deficiency. Congenital toxoplasmosis was confirmed by the presence of IgM abs and IgG neo-antibodies in western blot, as well as by real time PCR in blood. CMV infection was also discarded by PCR and IgM negative results. Structures suggestive of T. gondii pseudocysts were observed in a biopsy taken during the first functional/esthetic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that this is a rare case of anophthalmia combined with craniofacial cleft due to congenital toxoplasmosis, that must be considered by physicians. This has not been reported before.

High Frequency of Bone Marrow Depression During Congenital Toxoplasmosis Therapy in a Cohort of Children Identified by Neonatal Screening in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: There are few studies reporting frequency and control of adverse events associated with congenital toxoplasmosis treatment. The objective of this study is to describe treatment adherence and adverse hematologic events in a cohort of children identified with congenital toxoplasmosis in Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: Children were treated with sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine and folinic acid and were evaluated clinically and by laboratory tests at regular intervals. RESULTS: Of 146,307 live newborns who participated in the Neonatal Screening Program in Minas Gerais in 2006-2007, 190 had congenital toxoplasmosis. Among the 171 children whose treatment data were available, 73.1% completely adhered to antiparasitic therapy. Hematologic adverse events (macrocytic anemia and/or neutropenia and/or thrombocytopenia) were diagnosed in 44% of them. The most common adverse event was neutropenia (31%). In most cases, it was not severe and reversed after increase in folinic acid dosage (25.7%) or temporary treatment suspension (1.8%). No infections were observed in association with neutropenic events. Significant associations were detected between macrocytic anemia and lower weight Z score at first medical appointment (P = 0.03), and between severe neutropenia (<500/mm) and lower weight Z score toward the end of treatment (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: The high frequency of hematologic adverse events found, especially in malnourished children, highlight the importance of careful monitoring of these children throughout treatment, as well as considering nutritional aspects and the need for higher doses of folinic acid. With adequate monitoring, antiparasitic treatment was feasible and relatively safe in the setting of this large screening program for congenital toxoplasmosis.

Hipoacusia neurosensorial secundaria a infecciones perinatales / Sensorioneural hearing loss secondary to perinatal infections / A perda auditiva neurossensoral secundária a infecções perinatais

Introducción: 1 a 2 de cada 1.000 recién nacidos tienen una pérdida auditiva neurosensorial significativa. De las deficiencias auditivas congénitas, el 50% resultan de infecciones en el embarazo y/o parto; como las provocadas por: Toxoplasmosis, rubéola, citomegalovirus, herpes y sífilis. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica sistemática de artículos utilizando bibliotecas virtuales y libros de texto de relevancia dentro de la especialidad. Resultados: La rubéola en mujeres susceptibles puede producir el síndrome de rubéola congénita. La sordera es la manifestación más frecuente de la enfermedad y es la secuela más importante. El 15% de los niños infectados por Citomegalovirus padecen una pérdida auditiva por daño coclear y alteraciones en el sistema nervioso central al nacer. Otro 15% pueden desarrollar luego del nacimiento hipoacusia, retardo mental o dificultades en el desarrollo del lenguaje y del aprendizaje. Aproximadamente el 80% de los recién nacidos infectados por toxoplasmosis son asintomáticos; el resto presentará manifestaciones clínicas de afectación sistémica incluyendo compromiso auditivo como parte del cuadro. La infección por Herpes simple suele ser devastadora en el recién nacido. Se ha descrito hipoacusia en más del 50% de los casos. La sordera se asocia frecuentemente con la sífilis congénita. Junto con la queratitis intersticial y las malformaciones dentarias, forma parte de la tríada de Hutchinson. Conclusiones: La hipoacusia es un problema de gran importancia en la infancia. Las infecciones agrupadas en el término TORCHS causan hipoacusia neurosensorial adquirida en forma prenatal, dando lugar a sorderas presentes al nacer o de desarrollo diferido o progresivo.

Introduction: 1 to 2 of every 1,000 newborns have significant sensorineural hearing loss. From all the congenital hearing empairments, 50% take place during pregnancy and/or childbirth; such as those caused by: toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes and syphilis. Methods: A systematic literature research was performed using virtual libraries and relevant specialty textbooks. Results: Rubella in susceptible women may cause congenital rubella syndrome. Deafness is the most common manifestation of the disease and is the most important sequel. 15% of those children infected with Cytomegalovirus children suffer hearing loss from cochlear damage and alterations in the central nervous system at birth. Another 15% can then develop birth hearing loss, mental retardation or difficulties in language development and learning. Approximately 80% of newborns infected with toxoplasmosis are asymptomatic; the rest will present clinical manifestations of systemic disease including hearing impairment as part of the picture. Herpes simplex infection is devastating in the new born. Hearing loss has been described in over 50% of cases. Deafness is often associated with congenital syphilis. Along with interstitial keratitis and dental malformations, it is part of the Hutchinson triad. Conclusions: Hearing loss is a major problem in childhood. Gathered as TORCHS acquired infections cause sensorineural hearing loss prenatally, resulting in hearing loss present at birth or deferred or progressive development.

Introdução: 1 a 2 em cada 1.000 recém-nascidos têm perda auditiva neurossensorial significativo. Das deficiências auditivas congênitas, 50% das infecções resultar em gravidez e / ou parto; tais como aquelas causadas por: toxoplasmose, rubéola, citomegalovírus, herpes e sífilis. Métodos: Uma busca sistemática da literatura foi realizada utilizando bibliotecas virtuais e livros relevantes no art. Resultados: A rubéola em mulheres suscetíveis pode causar a síndrome da rubéola congênita. A surdez é a manifestação mais comum da doença e é a sequela mais importante. 15% das crianças infectadas com Citomegalovírus sofrer perda de audição de danos e alterações coclear no sistema nervoso central no nascimento. Outros 15% podem desenvolver perda auditiva nascimento, retardo mental ou dificuldades no desenvolvimento da linguagem e aprendizagem. Cerca de 80% dos recém-nascidos infectados com toxoplasmose é assintomática; o resto vai apresentar manifestações clínicas da doença sistêmica, incluindo a deficiência auditiva como parte da imagem. Infecção Herpes simplex geralmente devastadores no recém-nascido. A perda de audição tem sido descrita em mais de 50% dos casos. A surdez é frequentemente associada a sífilis congênita. Junto com ceratite intersticial e malformações dentárias, faz parte da tríade Hutchinson. Conclusões: A perda auditiva é um problema grave na infância. Agrupados nas infecções TORCHS causam perda auditiva neurossensorial pré-natal, resultando em perda auditiva presente no nascimento ou em diferido ou desenvolvimento progressivo.

Presentación de un caso con toxoplasmosis congénita / Case presentation: congenital Toxoplasmosis

La toxoplasmosis, enfermedad conocida como “Parasitosis del Siglo XX”, cobra importancia en los neonatos cuyas madres se infectaron por primera vez durante la gestación. El objetivo del trabajo es presentar el caso de un recién nacido de 40 semanas con toxoplasmosis congénita. El peso al nacer fue de 3 500 g, Apgar 2/3. Requirió intubación orotraqueal y resucitación cardiopulmonar inmediata. Hubo presencia de líquido amniótico meconial, tiempo de rotura de membranas de 14 h, antecedentes maternos de sepsis vaginal, y con un descenso detenido de la presentación lo que llevó a cesárea de urgencia. A las 4 h de vida desarrolla cuadro de coagulación intravascular diseminada, acompañado de hipotonía marcada, mirada fija sin respuesta pupilar ni esfuerzo respiratorio. A las 48 h aparece insuficiencia renal aguda con evolución rápida a fallo múltiple de órganos. Ultrasonido de cráneo con aumento de la ecogenicidad cerebral, borramiento de las circunvoluciones cerebrales y ventrículos laterales dilatados. Evolución tórpida, sin recuperación neurológica, alteraciones del medio interno y trastornos del equilibrio ácido-base e hidroelectrolítico, empeoramiento progresivo de la función cardiaca y respiratoria, fallece a los 21 días de vida.

Toxoplasmosis, known as the "Twentieth century parasites disease", becomes important in infants whose mothers were infected for the first time during pregnancy. The aim of this work is to present the case of a 40 weeks newborn with congenital toxoplasmosis. The birth weight was 3 500 g, Apgar 2/3. Immediate endotracheal intubation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation was required. There were meconium, 14-hour membrane rupture time, maternal history of vaginal sepsis, detained presentation prompting emergency caesarean section. At 4 hours of life, disseminated intravascular coagulation develops, accompanied by marked hypotonia, staring with no pupillary response or respiratory effort. At 48 hours, acute renal failure appears with rapid progression of multiple organ failure. Skull ultrasound showed increased brain echogenicity, effacement of the cerebral convolutions and dilated lateral ventricles. Torpid evolution, with no neurological recovery, internal disorders and disorders of acid-base and electrolyte balance, progressive deterioration of the cardiac and respiratory functions, dies at 21 days of life. Decease occurs at 21 days of life.

Propriedades psicométricas do Children's Visual Function Questionnaire adaptado para avaliação de qualidade de vida relacionada à visão de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita / Psychometric properties of the Children's Visual Function Questionnaire adapted to assess vision-related quality of life in children with congenital toxoplasmosis

Introdução: A elevada prevalência da toxoplasmose congênita (TC) no Brasil, verificada também no estado de Minas Gerais, associada ao maior comprometimento ocular observado nas crianças brasileiras comparadas às europeias; e a evolução de muitos desses indivíduos para a baixa visão (BV), nos remetem à necessidade de compreender o impacto da perda visual na qualidade de vida em uma coorte de crianças infectadas identificadas no período neonatal e tratadas com antiparasitários durante o primeiro ano de vida. Objetivo: Adaptar o questionário Children's Visual Function Questionnaire (CVFQ) à realidade sociocultural de crianças brasileiras com toxoplasmose congênita e investigar as propriedades psicométricas para mensuração da qualidade de vida (QV) relacionada à visão nesses pacientes; descrever as lesões retinocoroideanas observadas em uma coorte de crianças pré-escolares com TC em Minas Gerais; avaliar quantitativamente o déficit visual e investigar sua correlação com a pontuação na percepção da QV relacionada à perda visual (CVFQ7-BR-toxo). Método: Estudo epidemiológico transversal aninhado, em uma coorte de 142 crianças acompanhadas prospectivamente nos Serviços de Infectologia Pediátrica e Oftalmologia do Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG. Questionários foram aplicados aos pais e cuidadores para avaliar a percepção sobre a QV de suas crianças com TC e para verificar a situação socioeconômica das famílias. Oftalmologistas do setor de uveite avaliaram a retina das crianças e descreveram as lesões de retinocoroidite quanto à localização, número de lesões, tamanho e lateralidade. No setor de baixa visão, oftalmologistas avaliaram a acuidade visual. Foram usadas técnicas de estatística multivariada para avaliar as propriedades psicométricas da escala de QV e testes de Kruskal Wallis e Mann Whitney para a comparação dos escores medianos da escala de QV em crianças com visão normal, perda visual leve e baixa visão. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da UFMG. Resultado: Adaptações no CVFQ versão brasileira deram origem ao CVFQ7-BR-toxo, questionário para avaliar a percepção de pais/cuidadores sobre qualidade de vida relacionada a baixa visão de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita pré-escolares. Na análise fatorial exploratória o resultado do teste Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy (KMO) foi de 0,74, indicando boa adequabilidade do modelo fatorial. Seis componentes (fatores) extraídos correspondem a 46,3% da variância total explicada, e são compostos por itens com coeficiente de saturação (carga fatorial) maior ou igual a 0,45. Pela descrição, estrutura de variabilidade, e interpretação do agrupamento dos itens do questionário CVFQ adaptado (CVFQ7-BR-toxo) identificaram-se seis subescalas: saúde geral; capacidade visual; desempenho visual/visão funcional; comportamento social e pessoal, impacto na família e tratamento. A homogeneidade das medidas para o construto QV no CVFQ adaptado foi avaliada pela consistência interna das subescalas. As subescalas Desempenho visual - visão funcional e o Impacto na família se mostraram adequadas, com coeficiente alfa de Cronbach de 0,75 e 0,77 respectivamente. As subescalas comportamento pessoal e social e, tratamento apresentaram valores de alfa de Cronbach menores que 0,7 (0,68 e 0,61 respectivamente). A correlação entre as subescalas e a escala global foram todas significativas (p-valor <0,001) variando de 0,42 a 0,75. As correlações item-escala globais foram significativas (p-valor <0,01) e maiores do que 0,20, sendo estes valores considerados aceitáveis. Verificou-se a validade discriminante do instrumento pelas diferenças significativas (p<0,005) na comparação das escalas do CVFQ7-BR-toxo para escores relatados pelo pai/cuidador de crianças com e sem baixa visão. A validação convergente foi verificada pela correlação (r=0,58; p<0,001) entre o escores globais do CVFQ7-BR-toxo e do PedsQL, com resultado moderado. Para análise dos exames clínicos oftalmológicos, das 142 crianças, duas foram excluídas por não terem realizado todos os exames. Das 140 crianças, 87,1% (121/139) apresentaram pelo menos uma lesão de retinocoroidite e, dentre elas, 20,7% (25/121) foram diagnosticadas com baixa visão (BV). A retinocoroidite esteve presente em ambos os olhos de 81,0% (98/121) das crianças com lesões, sendo que 25,5% (25/98) destas tinham BV. Lesão macular (foveal e/ou extrafoveal) em ambos os olhos ocorreu em 43,9% (43/98) das crianças e 51,2% (22/43) destas apresentaram BV. Pelo menos 50% das crianças com BV apresentaram lesões com tamanho médio superior a 3,0 diâmetros de disco óptico (DD). Ausência de lesão ocorreu em apenas 12,9% (18/140) das crianças. Na percepção dos pais cuidadores (CVFQ7-BR-toxo) das crianças diagnosticadas com BV, os escores medianos foram menores nas dimensões capacidade visual (p=0,002), desempenho funcional/visão funcional (p=0,002), impacto na família (p=0,001) e na QV global (p=0,009) quando comparados às crianças com perda visual leve e com visão normal. Conclusão: As propriedades psicométricas do CVFQ7-BR-toxo se mostraram adequadas quanto à validade do construto QV. O instrumento foi capaz de registrar o impacto no comprometimento da visão funcional e na família de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita. Na avaliação oftalmológica dessa população foram observadas lesões retinocoroideanas de maior gravidade, por serem em sua maioria maculares, múltiplas, bilaterais, resultando em comprometimento da função visual e menor acuidade visual. Na percepção dos pais e cuidadores sobre a QV relacionada a baixa visão, estas crianças apresentaram pior capacidade visual, pior desempenho funcional / visão funcional, com maior impacto nas suas famílias e piora da qualidade de vida global. Esses resultados podem subsidiar políticas para melhor controle e prevenção da toxoplasmose congênita.

Introduction: The high prevalence of congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) in Brazil, in addition to the high burden of ocular involvement in infected individuals, evolving to low vision (LV) in many of them, highlights the importance of assessing their quality of life (QOL). Objective:To adapt the Children's Visual Function Questionnaire (CVFQ) to the sociocultural reality of Brazilian children with CT, and to investigate the psychometric properties to measure vision-related quality of life (QOL) for these patients; to characterize retinochoroidal changes in a cohort of preschool children with CT in Minas Gerais; to quantitatively evaluate the visual deficit and to investigate its correlation with QOL perception scores (CVFQ7-BR-toxo instrument).Methods: Cross-sectional epidemiological study with nested cohort of 142 children prospectively followed at the Pediatric Infectious Disease and Ophthalmology Services of Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisQuestionnaires were applied to parents and carers to evaluate QOL perception of their children with CT and to characterize the socioeconomic status of their families. Number, location, size and laterality of retinochoroidal lesions were recorded. Best-corrected visual acuity was also assessed. Multivariate statistical techniques were used to evaluate psychometric qualities of QOL scale. Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney test were employed for comparison of median scores of the QOL scale in children with normal visual, mild vision loss and low vision. Results: Adaptations in the CVFQ-Brazilian version originated the CVFQ7-BR-toxo, a questionnaire to evaluate perception of parents/carers about vision-related QOL of preschool children with CT. In the exploratory factor analysis, result of KaiserMeyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy test (KMO) was 0.74, indicating good suitability of the factor model.Six extracted components (factors) explained 46.3% of total variance, consisting of items with saturation coefficient (factor load) ≥ 0.45. Six subscales were identified after description, variability structure and interpretation of grouping of items of CVFQ7-BR-toxo: Overall Health; Visual Acuity; Visual Performance/Functional Vision; Individual and Social Behavior, Impact on Family, and Treatment. Homogeneity of measures for the QOL construct in the adapted CVFQ was evaluated by internal consistency of the subscales: Subscales Visual Performance/Functional Vision and Impact on Family showed to be adequate, with Cronbach's alpha of 0.75 and 0.77 respectively.Subscales Individual and Social Behavior and Treatment showed Cronbach's alpha coefficient smaller than 0.7 (0.68 and 0.61 respectively). The correlations between subscales and the global scale were all statistically significant (p-value <0.001) ranging from 0.42 to 0.75. The global item-scale correlations were also significant (p-value <0.01) and greater than 0.20, with these values being considered acceptable. Discriminant validity of the instrument by significant differences (p <0.005) was verified in the comparison of CVFQ7-BR-toxo scales to the scores reported by the parent/carers of children with and without low vision.The convergent validity was verified by the moderate correlation (r = 0.58; p <0.001) between the overall scores CVFQ7- BR-toxo and PedsQL. For the analysis of the clinical examinations of the 142 children, two were excluded because they did not have all the exams. Of the 140 children, 87.1% (121/139) had at least one retinochoroidal lesion. Among them, 20.7% (25/121) were diagnosed with LV. Retinochoroiditis was found in both eyes in 81.0% (98/121), and 25.5% (25/98) of these had LV. Macular (foveal and/or extrafoveal) lesions in both eyes occurred in 43.9% (43/98); 51.2% (22/43) of these children had low LV. At least 50% of children with LV presented retinochoroidal lesions with an average size > 3 optic disc diameter. Absence of retinochoroidal lesions was recorded in only 12.9% (18/140) of children. In the perception of carers parents (CVFQ7-BR-toxo) of children diagnosed with LV, median scores were lower for visual ability dimensions (p = 0.002), functional performance- visual function (p = 0.002), impact on family (p = 0.001) and overall QOL (p = 0.009) when compared to those of children with mild visual loss and with normal vision. Conclusion: CVFQ7-BR-toxo psychometric properties were appropriate concerning the validity of the QOL construct. The questionnaire was able to register the impact of visual disability on families of children with CT. Retinochoroiditis, was more severe, with frequent multiple, bilateral and macular lesions, resulting in impaired visual function. According to QOL perception of parents and carers, children with LV presented worse scores for visual capacity, functional performance/functional vison, with greater impact on their families and decreased overall quality of life. These results can support policies for better control and prevention of CT.

Seguimiento clínico y serológico de recién nacidos con IgM materna reactiva para toxoplasmosis. Policlínica de Infectología pediátrica. Hospital Escuela del Litoral, Paysandú. Años 2008-2013 / Clinical and serologic follow-up of newborns with maternal Igm toxoplasmosis positive. Pediatrics Infectious Diseases Polyclinic

Introducción: la infección por Toxoplasma gondii durante el embarazo puede resultar en graves complicaciones para el feto y dejar importantes secuelas en el recién nacido (RN). El objetivo del estudio fue realizar un seguimiento clínico y serológico de los recién nacidos cuyas madres tenían IgM reactiva para toxoplasmosis en el embarazo y analizar las características clínicas y serológicas de los que presentaron toxoplasmosis congénita (TC). Material y método: estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y longitudinal de RN cuyas madres tuvieron serología IgM reactiva en el embarazo y que fueron derivados para su seguimiento a la Policlínica de Infectología Pediátrica del Hospital de Paysandú en el período junio de 2008 a junio de 2013. Resultados: de los 51 RN evaluados, 50 fueron de término con una media de peso al nacer de 3.120 g y 5 fueron pequeños para la edad gestacional (PEG). Dos presentaron microcefalia y dos estuvieron expuestos a otras infecciones durante el embarazo (sífilis y virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana). De los 42 (82,3%) que completaron su seguimiento, en siete se diagnosticó TC (13,7%) y se descartó la infección en 35 (68,5%). En éstos la media de desaparición de la IgG fue de 6,2 meses. Tres de los infectados fueron sintomáticos y tenían IgM reactiva al nacer. Cuatro presentaron secuelas en la evolución. De ocho RN a los que se les indicó tratamiento, tres lo completaron. En 6 (85,7%) de los infectados se confirmó la seroconversión materna durante el embarazo. Conclusiones: si bien la TC no es muy frecuente en nuestro país, la morbilidad es muy importante. La presencia de seroconversión materna obliga a estudiar y tratar al RN hasta que se descarte la infección. La serología en el RN demuestra, en nuestro medio, una escasa sensibilidad y a falta de otras técnicas obliga a realizar el seguimiento clínico y serológico con IgG durante el primer año de vida.

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy can result in serious complications for the fetus and causes serious sequelae in the newborn. The study aimed to conduct a clinical and serological follow-up of newborns whose mothers were toxoplasma IgM positive during pregnancy and to analyze the clinical and serological evolution of those with congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) features. Method: descriptive, prospective, longitudinal study of newborns whose mothers were toxoplasma IgM positive during pregnancy and who were referred for follow-up to the Pediatrics Infectious Diseases Polyclinic. Escuela del Litoral Hospital, Paysandú, from June, 2008 through June, 2013. Results: out of 51 newborns assessed, 50 were term newborns with a mean birth weight of 3,120 g and 5 were small for gestational age (SGA). Two had microcephaly and 2 were exposed to other infections during pregnancy (syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus). Seven (13.7%) of the 42 (82.3%) newborns who completed follow-up CT were diagnosed with toxoplasmosis, and infection was ruled out in 35 (68.5%) newborns. In the latter half of the disappearance of IgG was 6.2 months. Three (43%) were infected symptomatic and had reactive IgM at birth. Four (57%) evidenced sequelae in evolution. Eight newborns were prescribed treatment, 3 of them completed it. In six (85.7%) of them infected maternal seroconversion during pregnancy was confirmed. Conclusions: although CT is not very common in our country, the disease is very important. The presence of maternal seroconversion forced to study and treat the newborns until infection is ruled out. Serology in the newborns demonstrates, in our environment, poor sensitivity and lack of other techniques necessary to undertake clinical and serological follow-up of IgM during the first year of life.

Congenital toxoplasmosis in a reference center of Paraná, Southern Brazil

This study describes the characteristics of 31 children with congenital toxoplasmosis children admitted to the University Hospital of Londrina, Southern Brazil, from 2000 to 2010. In total, 23 (85.2%) of the mothers received prenatal care but only four (13.0%) were treated for toxoplasmosis. Birth weight was <2500 g in 37.9% of the infants. During the first month of life, physical examination was normal in 34.5%, and for those with clinical signs and symptoms, the main manifestations were hepatomegaly and/or splenomegaly (62.1%), jaundice (13.8%), and microcephaly (6.9%). During ophthalmic examination, 74.2% of the children exhibited injuries, 58.1% chorioretinitis, 32.3% strabismus, 19.4% microphthalmia, and 16.2% vitreitis. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM antibodies were detected in 48.3% of the children. Imaging brain evaluation was normal in 44.8%; brain calcifications, hydrocephaly, or both conditions were observed in 27.6%, 10.3%, and 17.2%, respectively, of the patients. Patients with cerebrospinal fluid protein > 200 mg/dL presented more brain calcifications (p = 0.0325). Other sequelae were visual impairment (55.2% of the cases), developmental delay (31.0%), motor deficit (13.8%), convulsion (27.5%), and attention deficit (10.3%). All patients were treated with sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid, and 55.2% of them exhibited adverse effects. The results demonstrate the significance of the early diagnosis and treatment of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy to reduce congenital toxoplasmosis and its consequences.

Toxoplasmosis and pregnancy.

Question Congenital toxoplasmosis is a dangerous fetal infection. Why is routine screening for Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy not available for most Canadians? Answer Low prevalence of the infection, high cost associated with testing, low sensitivity of screening tests, false-positive test results, and limitations of treatment effectiveness are all cited as reasons for not routinely screening for T gondii infection in Canada. Currently, screening for the detection of T gondii is only performed in Nunavik and other parts of northern Quebec owing to the high prevalence of infection in this region. Congenital toxoplasmosis causes neurologic or ocular disease (leading to blindness), as well as cardiac and cerebral anomalies.

Submacular hemorrhage secondary to congenital toxoplasmosis.

We report the case of a patient with congenital toxoplasmosis and submacular hemorrhage caused by a neovascular membrane who underwent an intravitreal injection of C3F8 and bevacizumab, and had a good visual recovery.

A influência do familiar na aquisição de habilidades funcionais da criança com defi ciência visual / The family’s influence on the acquisition of functional abilities in children with visual impairments

A família exerce papel fundamental no desenvolvimento da criança com deficiência visual e para que ocorram cuidados adequados é preciso que sejam feitas intervenções nesse núcleo.Este estudo se propõe a identificar a influência do familiar na aquisição de habilidades funcionais da criança com visão subnormal. Estudo quantitativo de caráter transversal, que utilizou o Inventário de Avaliação Pediátrica de Incapacidade para coleta de dados. Foi aplicado o questionário com o cuidadore o julgamento clínico com dois profissionais envolvidos no atendimento à criança. O sujeito de pesquisa tinha cinco anos e diagnóstico de toxoplasmose congênita. Como resultado, obteve-se diferença entre as respostas dos profissionais e do familiar, evidenciando que o ambiente favorece ou inibe as ações realizadaspela criança. A influência do familiar sobre o fi lho mostrou-se limitadora nas situações de autocuidado, mobilidade e função social. A superproteção familiar pode resultar em dependência e falta de autonomia da criança, desinteresse em suas atividades, interferências em seu desenvolvimento emocional e social, além de conseqüências à sua estimulação e utilização da visão funcional.

The family plays a fundamental role in the development of children with visual impairment and to occur their appropriate care interventions in this core are needed. This study aims to identify the influence of the family on the acquisition of functional abilities of children with low vision. Cross-sectional study, that used the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory for data collection. The questionnaire was administered to the caregiver and clinical judgment with two professionals involved in the care of children selected. The research subject was five years old and diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. As results,obtained by the difference between the responses of professionals and family, showed that the environment encourages or inhibits child actions. The infl uence of the child’s family was limiting in situations of self-care, mobility and social function. Theoverprotection can take the child to dependence and lack of autonomy, lack of interest in activities, interference in social and emotional development, and consequences to the stimulation anduse of functional vision.

Submacular hemorrhage secondary to congenital toxoplasmosis / Hemorragia submacular secundária à toxoplasmose congênita

We report the case of a patient with congenital toxoplasmosis and submacular hemorrhage caused by a neovascular membrane who underwent an intravitreal injection of C3F8 and bevacizumab, and had a good visual recovery.

Relatamos o caso de uma paciente com toxoplasmose congênita e hemorragia submacular por uma membrana neovascular submetida à injeção intravítrea de C3F8 e bevacizumabe, com boa recuperação visual.

[Brain calcifications: a case presentation of congenital toxoplasmosis]. / Calcificaciones en el cerebro: presentación de un caso de toxoplasmosis congénita.

Toxoplasmosis is a common disease in Latin America. The infection has a major impact on public health worldwide. Congenital toxoplasmosis is part of the spectrum of the disease and the consequences for the newborn are devastating. In this article, we present a case of brain calcifications and hydrocephalus secondary to infection with Toxoplasma gondii in a newborn, as well as the outcome during follow-up and long-term sequelae. It is of high importance for the clinician to think about this disease, due to its high prevalence in Latin America, and to adopt adequate measures for its prevention and timely management in order to reduce long-term sequelae.

La toxoplasmosis es una enfermedad común en la población latinoamericana. Esta infección tiene un gran impacto en la salud pública a nivel mundial. Dentro del espectro de la infección, se encuentra la toxoplasmosis congénita. Las consecuencias de la infección intrauterina por Toxoplasma gondii, son nefastas para el recién nacido. En este artículo se presenta un caso de calcificaciones en el cerebro e hidrocefalia secundarias a infección por Toxoplasma gondii en un recién nacido, así como el desenlace durante el seguimiento y secuelas a largo plazo. Es de importancia que el clínico no olvide la alta prevalencia de toxoplasmosis en la población latinoamericana y que tome medidas adecuadas para su prevención y manejo oportuno que logren disminuir las secuelas a largo plazo.

A potential association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and schizophrenia in mouse models.

Schizophrenia is a serious neuropsychiatric disease of uncertain etiology, which causes human mental disorder and affects about 1% of the population. In recently years, some studies showed that some cases of schizophrenia may be associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection. In order to investigate a potential association between Toxoplasma infection and schizophrenia, we investigated the relative clinical symptom of schizophrenia such as learning and memory capability, depression and stereotypy to find some useful information by behavioral test in mouse models. Our results demonstrated that mice from Toxoplasma infection and MK-801 administration (as the model of schizophrenia) were impaired in learning and memory capability, and they had more serious depression and stereotypy compared with the control mice, especially the mice from congenital Toxoplasma infection. In addition, our results clearly showed that the number of cysts in brain tissue of congenital Toxoplasma infection mice was significantly low than in acquired Toxoplasma infected mice. Collectively, these results suggested a potential association between Toxoplasma infection and schizophrenia.