Guías Latinoamericanas de Infecciones Congénitas y Perinatales de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Infectología Pediátrica (SLIPE). Parte II / Latin American Guidelines on Congenital and Perinatal Infections from the Latin-American Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE). Part II

Las infecciones perinatales son una causa de morbilidad, tanto fetal como neonatal, y que compromete la salud de la mujer embarazada, por lo que su diagnóstico, tratamiento, e intento de eliminación son una prioridad en América Latina y el Caribe. Este documento representa la segunda entrega realizada por expertos en la región dentro de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Infectología Pediátrica (SLIPE), brindando una mirada actualizada en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas y entrega herramientas para detectar posibles momentos estratégicos de intervención y cambio en el manejo de las infecciones congénitas.

Perinatal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the fetus, neonate, and the health of the pregnant woman. Diagnosis, treatment, and the search for elimination of these diseases are a priority in Latin America and the Caribbean. This document represents the second delivery by a group of experts in the region inside the Latin-American Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE), presenting a up-to-date look into the management of congenital infectious diseases and give a tool to detect possible strategic sceneries and a change in the management of congenital infections in our region.

Perceptions and feelings of pregnant women undergoing outpatient follow-up for toxoplasmosis

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis persists as a neglected disease and poses a challenge to public health, especially due to the risk of vertical transmission, which can lead to countless biological complications for the newborn and to psychological and emotional repercussions for the mother. Objective: To understand the perceptions and feelings of pregnant women affected by toxoplasmosis undergoing outpatient follow-up. Materials and Methods: A qualitative and exploratory study developed with 12 women with gestational toxoplasmosis undergoing specialized outpatient follow-up in a municipality from the state of Paraná, Brazil. The data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and subjected to content analysis, supported by descending hierarchical classification. Results: The pregnant women experienced situations ranging from diagnosis and treatment to preventing the disease in the child and family. These experiences generated fear, distress and uncertainty about the disease, which were not adequately addressed during prenatal assistance in primary care. However, the pregnant women emphasized the importance of the multiprofessional team at the secondary level in monitoring and health education. Discussion: Although the pregnant women felt confident about the treatment and its implications for the child's health, discovering the diagnosis impacted their everyday lives and those of their families, especially due to lack of reliable information about toxoplasmosis and to the absence of emotional support at the primary level. Conclusions: There was a temporary scenario of disinformation among these women, who were not properly guided and supported. However, the guidelines offered in secondary health care were essential for improving knowledge and practices in health.

Biological screening for congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns from Jataí, Goiás, Brazil: a cross-sectional study / Cribado biológico de la toxoplasmosis congénita en recién nacidos de Jataí, Goiás, Brasil: un estudio transversal / Triagem biológica de toxoplasmose congênita em recém-nascidos de Jataí, Goiás: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To conduct a serological screening for toxoplasmosis in the heel prick test and to evaluate its epidemiological aspects in newborns and postpartum women in Jataí, Goiás. Method: Cross-sectional epidemiological study for the biological screening of newborns in Jataí, Goiás. Results: The study participants amounted to 228 newborns, whose samples were collected between the third and seventh day of life. IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were detected in 40.79% (93/228) of the samples; out of these, 23.6% (22/93) had high IgG antibody titers, leading to the collection of two other peripheral blood samples and the detection of a decrease in these titers. Conclusion: The findings show the importance of strengthening actions in primary health care to prevent infection and training health professionals in this area to equip them with information regarding cases of reinfection and reactivation of infection in pregnant women, minimizing risks for babies.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Realizar un cribado serológico de la toxoplasmosis en la prueba del talón y evaluar sus aspectos epidemiológicos en los recién nacidos y puérperas en Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudio epidemiológico transversal para el cribado biológico de los recién nacidos en Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaron en el estudio 228 recién nacidos, cuyas muestras fueron recolectadas entre el tercer y séptimo día de vida. Se detectaron anticuerpos IgG contra Toxoplasma gondii en el 40,79% (93/228) de las muestras; de ellos el 23,6% (22/93) presentaban títulos elevados de anticuerpos IgG y de ellos se recogieron otras dos muestras de sangre periférica; se detectó una disminución de estos títulos. Conclusión: Los hallazgos muestran la importancia de fortalecer las acciones en la atención primaria de salud para prevenir la infección y capacitar a los profesionales de la salud en esta área para dotarlos de información sobre los casos de reinfección y reactivación de la infección en mujeres embarazadas, minimizando los riesgos para los bebés.

RESUMO Objetivo: Realizar a triagem sorológica da toxoplasmose no teste do pezinho e avaliar os aspectos epidemiológicos em recém-nascidos e puérperas de Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudo epidemiológico transversal para a triagem biológica de recém-nascidos em Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaram desta pesquisa 228 recém-nascidos, sendo coletadas amostras entre o terceiro e o sétimo dia de vida. Foram detectados anticorpos IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii em 40,79% (93/228) das amostras; destes, 23,6% (22/93) apresentaram altos títulos de anticorpos IgG e tiveram outras duas amostras de sangue periférico coletadas, sendo verificada a diminuição desses títulos. Conclusão: Tais achados demonstraram a importância do fortalecimento de ações junto à atenção primária à saúde para a prevenção da infecção, assim como a capacitação de profissionais da saúde que atuam nesta área, para que sejam munidos de informações referentes a casos de reinfecção e reativação da infecção em gestantes, minimizando os riscos para os bebês.

Boletim epidemiológico: perfil de morbimortalidade do Hospital Estadual e Maternidade Nossa Senhora de Lourdes de julho a setembro de 2023 / Epidemiological bulletin: morbidity and mortality profile of the Nossa Senhora de Lourdes State Hospital and Maternity Hospital from July to September 2023

Boletim epidemiológico que tem como objetivo descrever os dados dos agravos e doenças de notificações compulsórias, perfil de natalidade e perfil de morbimortalidade do Hospital Estadual e Maternidade Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, elaborado através dos dados obtidos pelas notificações de doenças e agravos notificados, das declarações de nascidos vivos e dados dos óbitos onde foram emitidas as declarações de óbitos e realizado a investigação de óbitos. Os dados foram coletados através do sistema MV PEP, Sistema SINAN Net, SINAN Online, Comissão de Verificação de Óbitos e planilhas do NHE

Epidemiological bulletin that aims to describe data on conditions and diseases subject to compulsory notification, birth rate profile and morbidity and mortality profile of the Hospital Estadual e Maternidade Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. This is a descriptive study, prepared using data obtained from notifications of notified diseases and conditions, declarations of live births and data on deaths where death certificates were issued and death investigations were carried out. Data were collected through the MV PEP system, SINAN Net System, SINAN Online, Death Verification Commission and NHE spreadsheets

Stability of sulfadiazine sugar-free oral suspensions for the treatment of congenital toxoplasmosis

Abstract This study aimed to develop and evaluate the stability of sulfadiazine sugar-free extemporaneous oral suspensions, focusing on treating congenital toxoplasmosis. The excipients were carefully chosen to obtain safe products for the pediatric population. Sulfadiazine suspensions (100 mg/ mL) were prepared from the raw material or tablets, stored in amber glass bottles at 5±3ºC, and evaluated at 0, 14, and 30 days. An ultra-performance liquid chromatographic method was developed and validated to assay the drug. The particle size ranged from 29.3 to 50.6 µm, with some variation over the study; pH values around 7.0 and non-Newtonian behavior were observed without modification in the period. Formulations showed a fast dissolution rate (>80% in 15 minutes) without variation over the study. The drug assay was about 100% of the label claimed throughout the study, demonstrating the chemical stability and the preparations' dose homogeneity. The microbiological investigation indicated that both preparations met the requirements for the microbial count and absence of pathogens. In conclusion, the developed formulations can be used for 30 days when stored under refrigeration. The oral suspensions produced are easy to prepare and contain safe components, providing an alternative for congenital toxoplasmosis treatment in children

Profile of pregnant women and children accompanied due to T. gondii exposure at a referred healthcare center: What has changed in 10 years? / Perfil de gestantes e crianças acompanhadas por exposição ao Toxoplasma gondii num centro de referência: O que mudou 10 anos depois?

Abstract Objectives: to characterize the profile of pregnant women and newborns accompanied at a reference center for infectious-parasitic diseases, after the exposure of T. gondii, establishing comparisons with a previous study, in the same location, ten years ago. Methods: this is a retrospective cohort study, with a follow-up of four years (2016 to 2019), using the previous study carried out from 2002 to 2010 as a comparative for the variables assessed. Mothers who presented tests suggestive of seroconversion for the disease during prenatal care and their respective concepts, followed up over a year, were included. The chi-square test was used, assuming a significance level of 5% for the comparison of the groups in the two periods. Results: during the period from 2016 to 2019, 79 binomials were studied, whereas 58 binomials were accompanied in the previous period. Comparing both periods, the findings showed lower proportions of adolescents (p<0.001), with low schooling (p<0.001), with low serological testing (p<0.001) and with late or postnatal diagnosis (p<0.001). As to the children, the findings showed fewer changes in fundoscopy (p<0.001), strabismus (p=0.002), hepatomegaly (p=0.026) and any sequelae (p<0.001). Conclusion: a positive advance was observed regarding the care provided for the mother-child binomial affected by T. gondii, with a reduction in negative outcomes for the child. However, there are still challenges concerning the diagnosis and proper management of the disease.

Resumo Objetivos: caracterizar o perfil de gestantes e neonatos acompanhadas em um centro de referência em doenças infecto-parasitárias, após exposição ao Toxoplasma gondii, estabelecendo comparações em relação a estudo prévio, no mesmo local, há dez anos. Métodos: trata-se de estudo de coorte retrospectivo, com seguimento de quatro anos (2016 a 2019), servindo o estudo prévio realizado de 2002 a 2010 como comparativo para as variáveis estudadas. Foram incluídas mães que apresentaram durante o pré-natal exames sugestivos soroconversão para a doença e seus respectivos conceptos, acompanhados ao longo de um ano. Utilizou-se o teste qui-quadrado, assumindo-se nível de significância de 5% para a comparação dos grupos nos dois períodos. Resultados: durante o período de 2016 a 2019, foram estudados 79 binômios, enquanto no período anterior foram acompanhados 58 binômios. Comparando-se os dois períodos, em relação às mães, registraram-se menores proporções de adolescentes (p<0,001), de baixa escolaridade (p<0,001), baixa realização de testes sorológicos (p<0,001) e com diagnóstico tardio ou pós-natal (p<0,001). Em relação às crianças, verificaram-se menores proporções de alterações de fundoscopia (p<0,001), estrabismo (p=0,002), hepatomegalia (p=0,026) e qualquer sequela (p<0,001). Conclusão: observou-se um avanço em relação aos cuidados para o binômio mãe-filho acometido pelo T. gondii, com redução de desfechos negativos sobre a criança. Todavia, ainda existem desafios para o diagnóstico e adequado manejo da doença.

Molecular and serological pattern of Toxoplasma gondii among rural population in four regions of Gabon

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular parasite that causes a zoonotic disease capable of infecting nearly all warm-blooded hosts, including humans. However, reports on the molecular prevalence of T. gondii in humans are rare in Gabon. The present study aimed to evaluate the serological and molecular prevalence of T. gondii among apparently healthy rural populations in four regions of Gabon. This study included six hundred blood samples from the Interdisciplinary Center for Medical Research (CIRMF) bank, including 300 women and 300 men living in 111 villages. Blood samples were screened using enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA), while buffy coat samples were analyzed using PCR analyses. Of the 600 samples screened, 548 (91.3%) showed IgG antibodies against T. gondii; 11 (2%) had both IgG and IgM. Among the 548 positive samples, 155 (28%) had higher IgG titers (>300 UI/ml), and 49 of them (31.6%) were detected with T. gondii DNA. The present findings on human toxoplasmosis in Gabon suggest that at an older age, reactivation of old infections seems more frequent than new infections, as indicated by the presence of T. gondii using PCR among elevated IgG subjects without IgM. Further studies should be performed to identify the genotypes of T. gondii that infect humans in Gabon.

Transmisión vertical de Toxoplasma gondii asociado a la edad gestacional / Vertical transmission of Toxoplasma gondii associated with gestational age

Una de las principales consecuencias de la infección por Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres embarazadas es la transmisión vertical al feto. Aunque es poco frecuente, la toxoplasmosis congénita puede causar enfermedades neurológicas u oculares graves. La infección primaria por T. gondii durante el embarazo puede tener consecuencias peligrosas, como retinocoroiditis, hidrocefalia, calcificaciones cerebrales, encefalitis, esplenomegalia, pérdida de audición, ceguera y muerte. La atención prenatal debe incluir educación sobre la prevención de la toxoplasmosis. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico y transversal. Se evaluaron 209 mujeres gestantes e igual número de recién nacidos; 136 de las mujeres embarazadas resultaron con infección aguda positiva a IgM. De estas 51,20% y 64,71% resultaron primoinfectadas según la determinación de IgA e IgG avidez, respectivamente. 20 de los 35 neonatos provenientes de madres primoinfectadas, adquirieron la infección congénita en el tercer trimestre de la gestación. La conciencia sobre la prevención y el control de la toxoplasmosis es baja entre las poblaciones de alto riesgo. Es necesario fortalecer la educación en salud relacionada con la prevención y el control de la toxoplasmosis en las mujeres en edad reproductiva para prevenir la transmisión vertical a sus productos de gestación y evitar los efectos negativos y hasta mortales de la inefcción por el parásito(AU)

One of the main consequences of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women is vertical transmission to the fetus. Although rare, congenital toxoplasmosis can cause serious neurological or ocular disease. Primary T. gondii infection during pregnancy can have dangerous consequences, including retinochoroiditis, hydrocephalus, cerebral calcifications, encephalitis, splenomegaly, hearing loss, blindness, and death. Prenatal care should include education on the prevention of toxoplasmosis. This is an observational, analytical and cross-sectional study. 209 pregnant women and the same number of newborns were evaluated; 136 of the pregnant women were acutely infected with IgM. Of these, 51.20% and 64.71% were primary infected according to the determination of IgA and IgG avidity, respectively. 20 of the 35 neonates from mothers with primary infection acquired the congenital infection in the third trimester of pregnancy. Awareness of toxoplasmosis prevention and control is low among high-risk populations. It is necessary to strengthen health education related to the prevention and control of toxoplasmosis in women of reproductive age to prevent vertical transmission to their gestational products and avoid the negative and even fatal effects of infection by the parasite(AU)

Psychological and relational meanings of the experience of motherhood with toxoplasmosis / Significados psicológicos e relacionais da experiência da maternidade com toxoplasmose / Significados psicológicos y relacionales de la experiencia de la maternidad con toxoplasmosis

With the purpose of understanding the psychological and relational meanings of the experience of motherhood in the face of toxoplasmosis, a clinical-qualitative study was carried out performing semi-directed interviews with five mothers of babies with toxoplasmosis. The information was submitted to Content Analysis, and the results demonstrated that the psychological meanings include both the presence of difficulties and suffering and the potentiality of the babies and the establishment of emotional mother-baby bonds. Relative to the relational meanings, the importance of support networks was identified, emphasizing the role of family members, health services, and religiosity as sources of support in facing difficulties. However, it was identified that the care is provided primordially to the babies, with the emotional assistance to mothers being insufficient. In conclusion, it stands out that each mother experienced toxoplasmosis from their possibilities and available support network, which affected the establishment of the mother-baby bond. (AU)

Com o objetivo de compreender os significados psicológicos e relacionais da experiência da maternidade diante da toxoplasmose, realizou-se uma pesquisa clínico-qualitativa, em que foram realizadas entrevistas semidirigidas com cinco mães de bebês com toxoplasmose. As informações foram submetidas à análise de conteúdo e os resultados demonstraram que os significados psicológicos incluem tanto a presença de dificuldades e sofrimento, quanto de potencialidade dos bebês e do estabelecimento de vínculo emocional mãe-bebê. Com relação aos significados relacionais, identificou-se a importância das redes de apoio, destacando-se o papel de familiares, serviços de saúde e da religiosidade como fonte de suporte para o enfrentamento das dificuldades. Contudo, identificou-se que a atenção é dispensada primordialmente aos bebês, sendo insuficiente a assistência emocional para as mães. Em conclusão, destaca-se que cada mãe experienciou a toxoplasmose a partir das suas possibilidades e das redes de apoio disponíveis, o que afetou no estabelecimento da vinculação mãe-bebê. (AU)

Para comprender los significados psicológicos y relacionales de la maternidad frente a la toxoplasmosis, se realizó una investigación clínico-cualitativa, en la que se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas con cinco madres de bebés con toxoplasmosis. La información fue sometida a Análisis de Contenido y los resultados demostraron que los significados psicológicos incluyen tanto la presencia de dificultades y sufrimiento, como la potencialidad de los bebés para el establecimiento de un vínculo emocional con sus madres. Considerando los significados relacionales, se identificó la importancia de las redes de apoyo, destacando el papel de la familia, los servicios de salud y la religiosidad como soporte frente a las dificultades. Sin embargo, se identificó que la atención se presta principalmente a los bebés, con asistencia emocional insuficiente para las madres. Como conclusión, se enfatiza que cada madre ha experimentado toxoplasmosis en función de sus posibilidades y de las redes de apoyo disponibles, lo que ha afectado el establecimiento de la conexión madre-bebé. (AU)

Toxoplasmosis congénita con enfermedad neurológica severa en un hospital de referencia del Perú / Congenital toxoplasmosis with severe neurological disease in a referral hospital in Peru

RESUMEN El propósito del presente estudio fue describir las características epidemiológicas, clínicas, y terapéuticas de pacientes con diagnóstico de toxoplasmosis congénita (TC) con enfermedad neurológica severa. Se revisaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes menores de 1 año con serología IgM positiva para Toxoplasma gondii y compromiso encefálico, ocular y/o auditivo. El estudio se realizó en el Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja (INSN-SB) en Lima, Perú. Se evaluaron a 21 pacientes con diagnóstico de TC, el 57,1% fueron del sexo femenino y la mediana de edad al momento del diagnóstico fue 3,1 meses (RIC: 1,7-7,3). Las principales manifestaciones del sistema nervioso central fueron hidrocefalia (76,2%), calcificaciones intracraneales (52,4%), microcefalia (42,9%), y convulsiones (25,6%); la manifestación ocular más frecuente fue la coriorretinitis (38,1%). En conclusión, 64% de los casos de TC tuvieron una o más manifestaciones de enfermedad neurológica severa.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of patients diagnosed with congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) with severe neurological disease. We reviewed the medical records of patients under 1 year of age with positive IgM test for Toxoplasma gondii and brain, eye, and/or hearing involvement. This study was carried out at the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja (INSNSB), Lima, Peru. Twenty-one patients diagnosed with CT were evaluated; 57.1% were female, and the median age at diagnosis was 3.1 months (IQR: 1.7-7.3). The main central nervous system manifestations were hydrocephalus (76.2%), intracranial calcifications (52.4%), microcephaly (42.9%), and convulsions (25.6%); the most frequent ocular manifestation was chorioretinitis (38.1%). In conclusion, 64% of CT cases had one or more manifestations of severe neurological disease.

Toxoplasmosis ocular en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad con toxoplasmosis congénita / Ocular toxoplasmosis in infants 0 to 12 months of age with congenital toxoplasmosis

INTRODUCCIÓN: La toxoplasmosis ocular (TO) es una retinocoroiditis que evoluciona con varios episodios de inflamación y puede presentarse, tanto en la forma congénita o adquirida de la enfermedad, OBJETIVO: Describir la frecuencia y características clínicas de la TO en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses, hijos de madres con serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal. METODOLOGÍA: Estudio descriptivo transversal, ambispectivo. Ingresaron lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad, cuyas madres tenían serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal, remitidos al servicio de oftalmología pediátrica para evaluación. Se recogieron variables demográficas, serología materna y de los lactantes, y los resultados del examen oftalmológico. Los datos fueron analizados en SPSS-v21. RESULTADOS: El 46,4% de 125 lactantes tenían TO, de ellos, 67,2% era de sexo femenino (p = 0,04), la mediana de edad fue de 6 meses, el 41% tenía IgG e IgM positiva. Las lesiones fueron bilaterales en 82,8%, central en 86,2%, e inactivas en 81%. La retinocoroiditis se acompañó de estrabismo en 41%. CONCLUSIONES: La frecuencia de TO en esta población de lactantes con toxoplasmosis congénita, fue elevada. Más de 80% de las lesiones oculares eran inactivas, de localización central y compromiso bilateral.

BACKGROUND: Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is a retinochoroiditis that evolves with several episodes of inflammation and can occur both in the congenital or acquired form of the disease, AIM: To describe the frequency and clinical characteristics of OT in infants aged 0 to 12 months, children of mothers with positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive, ambispective study. RESULTS: Infants from 0 to 12 months of age, whose mothers had positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period, referred to the pediatric ophthalmology service for evaluation, were admitted. Demographic variables, maternal and infant serology and the results of the ophthalmological examination were collected. Data were analyzed in SPSS v21 RESULTS: 46.4% of 125 infants had OT, of them 67.2% were female, (p = 0.04) the median age was 6 months, 41% had IgG and IgM positive. The lesions were bilateral in 82.8%, central in 86.2%, and inactive in 81%. Retinochoroiditis was accompanied by strabismus in 41%. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of OT in this population of infants with congenital toxoplasmosis was high. more than 80% of the eye lesions were inactive, centrally located and bilaterally involved.

Toxoplasma gondii Prevalence in Pregnant Women in Jataí - GO: a 10-year profile / Prevalência do Toxoplasma gondii em Gestantes no Município de Jataí ­ GO: um recorte de 10 anos / Prevalencia de Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres embarazadas de la Ciudad de Jataí - GO: un período de 10 años

Background and Objectives: Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan zoonosis caused by the Toxoplasma gondii protozoan, transmitted mainly through contaminated water or food, beyond vertical transmission. In the State of Goiás, there is a lack of data on the prevalence of the disease, hence the relevance of this cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in the municipality of Jataí. Methods: Data were collected from pregnant women attended by the public health network in the municipality from January 2005 to December 2015. Results: During the analyzed period, 11,350 pregnant women were attended; 75% with IgG antibodies and 0,60% IgM antibodies reactive for T. gondii, with a reduction in the number of cases since 2010. Conclusion: The high seroprevalence found shows that pregnant women are in close contact with factors that trigger the infection and a reduction in the number of cases indicates the efficacy of epidemiological surveillance actions developed for this population group.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: Toxoplasmose é uma zoonose cosmopolita causada pelo protozoário Toxoplasma gondii, transmitido principalmente através de água e alimentos contaminados e pela transmissão vertical. No estado de Goiás existe uma escassez de dados referentes à prevalência da toxoplasmose. Diante dessa realidade, tornou-se relevante esse estudo transversal que determinasse a prevalência da toxoplasmose nas gestantes no município de Jataí. Métodos: Foram coletados dados de grávidas atendidas pela rede pública de saúde no município no período de janeiro de 2005 a dezembro de 2015. Resultados: No período analisado, foram atendidas 11.350 gestantes, sendo 75% delas com anticorpos IgG e 0,60% anticorpos IgM reagentes para T. gondii, com redução no número de casos a partir de 2010. Conclusão: A alta soroprevalência encontrada demonstra que as grávidas estão em íntimo contato com os fatores que desencadeiam a infecção. É necessário investigar os fatores que contribuem para a elevada taxa de infecção.(AU)

Justificacíon y Objetivos: La toxoplasmosis es uma zoonosis cosmopolita causada por el protozoo Toxoplasma gondii, que se transmite principalmente através del agua o alimentos contaminados, además de la transmisión vertical. Em el estado de Goiás, se carece de dados sobre la prevalência de la enfermedad y ante esta realidade, es relevante este estudio transversal para determinar la prevalência de toxoplasmosis em gestantes del município de Jataí. Métodos: Se recolectaron dados de gestantes atendidas por la red de salud pública del município de Enero de 2005 a Diciembre de 2015. Resultados: Entre el período analizado se trató a 11.350 gestantes, 75% de ellas com anticuerpos IgG y 0,60% anticuerpos IgM reactivos para T. gondii, com uma reducción em el número de casos a partir de 2010. Conclusión: La alta soroprevalência encontrada muestra que las mujeres embarazadas están em estrecho contacto com los fatores desencadenantes de la infección y uma reducción em el número de casos apunta a uma eficácia em las acciones de vigilância epidemiológica desarrolladas para este grupo de problación.(AU)

Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) no diagnóstico complementar da toxoplasmose congênita: uma revisão bibliográfica / Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in the complementary diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis: a bibliographic review

A toxoplasmose é uma doença de ampla distribuição geográfica, sendo um grave problema de saúde pública. A infecção primária durante a gravidez pode causar infecção congênita ao feto e gerar consequências graves. Neste contexto, a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) é atualmente um dos métodos mais eficientes para investigação fetal em casos de suspeita de infecção. Portanto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar uma revisão bibliográfica sobre a toxoplasmose congênita e seu diagnóstico molecular através da PCR. Para tanto, foram pesquisados artigos publicados no período de janeiro de 2010 a abril de 2021 em diferentes bases de dados usando os descritores "Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase", "Toxoplasma gondii" e "Toxoplasmose congênita". A partir da pesquisa, foi possível verificar que a combinação de métodos sorológicos com a realização da PCR, principalmente no líquido amniótico, constitui uma importante ferramenta para o diagnóstico antenatal e pós-natal da toxoplasmose congênita. Além disso, a PCR em tempo real parece não apresentar melhores resultados em comparação à PCR convencional. Não obstante, estudos voltados à padronização da técnica visando melhor sensibilidade são necessários, uma vez que o diagnóstico da toxoplasmose gestacional/congênita permite a implementação do tratamento a fim de minimizar as consequências da infecção ao neonato.

Toxoplasmosis is a disease of wide geographical distribution, being a serious public health concern. The primary infection during pregnancy may cause congenital infection of the infant and lead to serious consequences. In this context, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is currently one of the most efficient methods for fetal investigation in cases when infection is suspected. Therefore, the present study aimed to conduct a literature review on congenital toxoplasmosis and its molecular diagnosis by PCR. Thus, the research for papers published between January 2010 and April 2021 was conducted in different databases, using the terms "polymerase chain reaction", "Toxoplasma gondii" and "congenital toxoplasmosis". It was possible to verify that the combination of serological methods and PCR, mainly of the amniotic fluid, is a valuable tool the antenatal and post-natal diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. Furthermore, real time PCR seems to have no better results in comparison to conventional PCR. Nevertheless, studies related to standardization of the technique aiming higher sensitivity are necessary since the diagnosis of gestational/congenital toxoplasmosis enables the treatment in order to minimize the consequences of the infection to the infant.

Evaluation of the level of knowledge and prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women in Santa Catarina, Brazil

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection in pregnant women in Santa Catarina, as well as to analyze the knowledge about zoonosis in the study population. Methods: Therefore, 109 volunteers evaluated in Basic Health Units in the city of Blumenau and Brusque were evaluated. The data were collected through questionnaires and analysis of the pregnant woman's handbooks with medical records. Results: In this study, the prevalence of IgG anti-T. gondii was 53.7%, with positivity for IgM anti-T. gondii was 1.0%. Seronegativity for toxoplasmosis was verified in 45.3% of the participants. In addition, the data demonstrated that the majority of pregnant women have not any knowledge of the disease. Conclusion: The results of obtained demonstrated that health actions promotion is crucial to clarify about T. gondii infection, in order to prevent this disease during pregnancy.

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo determinar a prevalência de infecção pelo Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) entre gestantes de Santa Catarina, bem como analisar o conhecimento sobre a zoonose na população em estudo. Métodos: Para tanto, foram avaliadas 109 voluntárias atendidas em Unidades Básicas de Saúde dos municípios de Blumenau e Brusque. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionários e análise de cadernetas da gestante. Resultados: Neste estudo, a prevalência global de anti-T. gondii IgG foi de 53,7%, sendo que a positividade para anti-T. gondii IgM foi de 1,0%. A soronegatividade para toxoplasmose foi verificada em 45,3% das participantes. Além disso, os dados revelaram que a maioria das gestantes não tem conhecimento acerca da doença. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo demostraram a necessidade da promoção de ações de saúde voltadas ao esclarecimento sobre o T. gondii visando prevenir a infecção durante a gestação.

PCR em tempo real no diagnóstico da toxoplasmose congênita / Real-time PCR in the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis

O diagnóstico da toxoplasmose congênita apresenta limitações sendo, portanto, necessárias novas opções de exames. A análise do líquido aminiótico pela PCR em tempo real já se mostrou eficaz para confirmação da infecção fetal. No entanto, o seu desempenho em outras amostras biológicas ainda não está claro. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a PCR em tempo real no sangue da mãe e do recém-nascido assim como no líquido amniótico e placenta, no diagnóstico da toxoplasmose congênita. Esse é um estudo descritivo de gestantes com toxoplasmose acompanhadas no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Foi realizada PCR em tempo real em amostras de sangue materno, líquido amniótico, placenta e sangue dos recém-nascidos e o exame histopatológico das placentas. Também foram coletados dados clínicos e laboratoriais dos recém-nascidos. Foram acompanhadas 116 gestantes e analisadas 298 amostras. Uma (0,9%) gestante apresentou PCR positiva no sangue, três (3,5%) no líquido amniótico, uma (2,3%) na placenta e nenhum recém-nascido apresentou PCR positiva no sangue. O estudo histopatológico foi sugestivo de infecção por toxoplasmose em 24 (49%) placentas. Seis (5,2%) recém-nascidos foram diagnosticados com toxoplasmose congênita e apenas os casos com PCR positiva no líquido amniótico tinham associação do resultado da PCR com o diagnóstico de infecção congênita. Tanto as amostras de sangue materno quanto as de sangue dos recém-nascidos e placenta, não demonstraram ser promissoras no diagnóstico da toxoplasmose congênita. Novos estudos são necessários para avaliar o real papel do diagnóstico molecular em outros materiais biológicos que não o líquido amniótico.

The diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis has limitations so new options are needed. Real-time PCR analysis of amniotic fluid has proven effective for confirming fetal infection. However, its performance in other biological samples still needs to be determined. This study aims to evaluate the real-time PCR role in the blood of the mother and newborn as well as in the amniotic fluid and placenta, in congenital toxoplasmosis diagnosis. It is a descriptive study of pregnant women with toxoplasmosis followed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Real-time PCR was performed on maternal blood, amniotic fluid, placenta, and newborn blood samples. In addition, a histopathological examination of the placentas was performed and data from the babies were collected. One hundred and sixteen pregnant women were followed and 298 samples were analyzed. One (0.9%) pregnant woman had positive PCR in the blood, three (3.5%) in the amniotic fluid, one (2.3%) in the placenta, and any newborn had positive PCR in the blood. The histopathological study suggested toxoplasmosis infection in 24 (49%) placentas. Six (5.2%) newborns were diagnosed with congenital toxoplasmosis and only the cases with positive PCR in amniotic fluid associated with the diagnosis of congenital infection. Neither maternal nor newborn blood and placenta samples have not shown promise in diagnosing congenital toxoplasmosis. Further studies are needed to evaluate the fundamental role of molecular diagnostics in others biological materials than amniotic fluid.

O laço mãe-bebê e o desenvolvimento infantil frente à toxoplasmose: um estudo de casos múltiplos / El vínculomadre-bebé y el desarrollo del niño frente a la toxoplasmosis: un estudio de caso múltiple / The mother-baby bondand child development in the context of toxoplasmosis: a multiple case study / Le lien mère-bébé et le développement de l'enfant face à la toxoplasmose: une étude de cas multiples

Este estudo objetivou compreender as implicações da toxoplasmose congênita e pós-natal no laço mãe-bebê e no desenvolvimento do bebê. Realizou-se um estudo de casos múltiplos com duas díades de mães e bebês diagnosticados com toxoplasmose congênita ou pós-natal, através de entrevistas semiestruturadas com as mães e observação dos Indicadores Clínicos de Referência para o Desenvolvimento Infantil (IRDIs). O primeiro caso apresentou todos os indicadores presentes, revelando que o processo de desenvolvimento do bebê estava em andamento. O segundo caso teve dois indicadores ausentes, sinalizando um alerta frente a dificuldades na relação da díade. Destaca-se que a presença de intercorrências orgânicas pode afetar a constituição do laço mãe-bebê e o desenvolvimento do bebê, mas não implica, necessariamente, em consequências negativas, visto que se tratam de processos complexos, dinâmicos e multifatoriais

Este estudio buscó comprender las implicaciones de toxoplasmosis congénita y postnatal en el vínculo madre-bebé y en el desarrollo del bebé. Se realizó un estudio de caso múltiple con dos díadas de madres y bebés diagnosticados con toxoplasmosis congénita o posnatal, mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas con las madres y observación de los Indicadores Clínicos de Referencia para el Desarrollo Infantil (IRDIs). El primer caso presentó todos indicadores presentes, revelando que el proceso de desarrollo del bebé estaba en curso. El segundo caso tenía dos indicadores ausentes, indicando una alerta ante las dificultades en la relación madre-bebé. Se destaca que la presencia de complicaciones orgánicas puede afectar la constitución del vínculo madre-bebé y el desarrollo del bebé, pero no necesariamente implica consecuencias negativas, por tratarse de procesos complejos, dinámicos y multifactoriales

This study aimed to understand the implications of congenital and postnatal toxoplasmosis in the mother-baby bond and in baby's development. A multiple case study was carried out with two dyads of mothers and babies diagnosed with congenital or postnatal toxoplasmosis, through semi-structured interviews with the mothers and observation of the Clinical Reference Indicators for Child Development (IRDIs). The first case presented all the indicators present, revealing that the baby's development process was in progress. The second case had two indicators absent, signaling an alert in the face of difficulties in the dyad's relationship. It is noteworthy that the presence of organic complications can affect the constitution of the mother-infant bond and the baby's development, but it does not necessarily imply negative consequences, as these are complex, dynamic and multifactorial processes

Cette étude a visé à comprendre les implications de la toxoplasmose congénitale et le postnatal pour le lien mère-bébé et le développement de bébé. Une étude de multiples cas a été realizé avec deux dyades des mères et bébés diagnostiqués avec toxoplasmose congénitale ou postnatal, à travers de interviews semi-structurés aves des méres et observation des Indicateurs Cliniques de Risque pour le Développement de l'Infant (IRDIs). Le premier cas présentait tous les indicateurs présents, révélant que le processus de développement du bébé était en cours. Le deuxième cas avait deux indicateurs absents, signalant une alerte sur la difficulté dans la relation de dyade. Il est souligné que la présence de complications organiques affecte la constitution du lien mère-bébé et le développement du bébé, mais n'implique pas, nécessairement, en conséquences négatives ou préjudice,car ce sont des processus complexes, dynamiques et multifactoriels qui sont considerés

Séroprévalence de la toxoplasmose chez les femmes en consultation prénatale à l'Hôpital du District de Bossembelé en République Centrafricaine en 2020 / Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in women in antenatal clinic at the Bossembelé District Hospital in the Central African Republic in 2020

Contexte et objectif. La toxoplasmose est une anthropozoonose ubiquitaire qui occupe une large place en médecine humaine et vétérinaire. Mais les données y relatives chez la femme enceinte sont paradoxalement fragmentaires. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la séroprévalence de la toxoplasmose chez les femmes enceintes. Méthodes. Il s'agissait d'une étude transversale réalisée, à la maternité de l'Hôpital du District de Bossembelé, entre juin et septembre 2020. La population d'étude était constituée de femmes enceintes se présentant au laboratoire du District pour la sérologie toxoplasmique. Résultats. Au total, les données sérologiques de 50 femmes enceintes ont été analysées. L'âge moyen était de 25 ± 6 ans (extrème 16 et 40 ans). Les femmes au premier geste (n=20 soit 40 %) et les primipares (n= 30 soit 60 %) étaient prépondérantes. La sérologie était positive chez 15 patientes (30 %). Selon les caractéristiques sociodémographiques, la séroprévalence de la toxoplasmose était plus élevée chez les femmes de 20 à 35 ans (35,2 %), les femmes ayant été enceintes trois fois (88,8 %) et les femmes qui habitent le quartier Onoguia (66,66%). Les IgM étaient plus élevées chez les patients de la tranche d'âge de 20 à 35 ans (n=12), les femmes au 3e geste (n=8), les multipares (n=9) et chez celles habitant Bodoukpa (n=6). Les IgG étaient élevées chez les femmes enceintes de 20 à 35 ans (n=13), les femmes au 3e geste (n=7), les primipares (n=14) et celles habitant le quartier Bodoukpa (n=6). Parmi les patientes étudiées, 16 (32 %) étaient immunisées contre la toxoplasmose. Des 50 femmes, 4 avaient connu un avortement spontané durant les grossesses précédentes. Conclusion. Dans la présente étude, la séroprévalence de la toxoplasmose chez la femme enceinte est très fréquente. Une sensibilisation sur les risques de contamination, une surveillance sérologique systématique et des mesures d'hygiène devraient être proposées lors des consultations prénatales

Context and objective. Toxoplamosis is a ubiquitous anthropozoonosis that occupies a large place in human and veterinary medicine. The objective of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women. Methods. This was a cross sectional study involving pregnant women presenting at the laboratory of the Bossembele District Hospital, Central African Republic between June and September 2020 for toxoplasmic serology. Results. A total of 50 pregnant women were examined. The age of patients varied from 16 to 40 years. The average age was 25 ± 6 years. Primigravida (n=20; or 40%) and primiparous women (n=30; or 60%) were more preponderant. Serology was positive in 15 patients (30 %). According to sociodemographic characteristics, the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was higher among women aged 20 to 35 (35.2 %), women who had been pregnant three times (88.8 %) and women who lived in the Onoguia neighborhood (66.6 %). IgM was higher in patients aged 20 to 35 years (n=12), in 3rd gravida women (n=8), in multiparous (n=9) and in those living in Bodoukpa (n=6). IgG was high in pregnant women aged 20 to 35 years (n=13), in 3rd gravida women (n=7), in primiparous women (n=14) and in those living in the Bodoukpa neighbourhood (n=6). Of the patients in the study, 16 turned out to be immune to toxoplasmosis. Among 50 women, 4 experienced spontaneous abortions during previous pregnancies. Conclusion. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in the present study is common. Awareness on the risks of contamination, the systematic serological monitoring and the hygiene measures should be raised during antenatal consultations

IgG Avidity in Samples Collected on Filter Paper: Importance of The Early Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis / Avidez de IgG em amostras coletadas em papel filtro: Importância no diagnóstico precoce da toxoplasmose congênita

Abstract Objective The purpose of the present study is to standardize and evaluate the use of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody avidity test on blood samples from newborns collected on filter paper to perform the heel test aiming at its implementation in ongoing programs. Methods Blood samples from newborns were collected on filter paper simultaneously with the heel prick test. All samples were subjected to immunoglobulin M IgM and IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Peripheral blood was collected again in the traditional way and on filter paper from newborns with high IgG levels (33). Three types of techniques were performed, the standard for measuring IgG in serum, adapted for filter paper and the technique of IgG avidity in serum and on filter paper. The results of the avidity test were classified according to the Rahbari protocol. Results Among the 177 samples, 17 were collected in duplicate from the same child, 1 of peripheral blood and 1 on filter paper. In this analysis, 1 (5.88%) of the 17 samples collected in duplicate also exhibited low IgG avidity, suggesting congenital infection. In addition, the results obtained from serum and filter paper were in agreement, that is, 16 (94.12%) samples presented high avidity, with 100% agreement between the results obtained from serum and from filter paper. Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that the avidity test may be another valuable method for the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo é padronizar e avaliar a utilização do teste de avidez de anticorpos imunoglobulina G (IgG) em amostras de sangue de recémnascidos (RNs) coletadas em papel filtro para a realização do teste do pezinho visando a implementação nos programas já vigentes. Métodos Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de recém-nascidos em papel filtro simultaneamente ao teste do pezinho. Em todas as amostras, foram realizados os testes imunoenzimáticos (ELISA) imunoglobulina M (IgM) e IgG. Dos RNs que apresentaram altos índices de IgG (33), foi novamente coletado sangue periférico da forma tradicional e em papel filtro. Foram realizadas técnicas padrão para a dosagem de IgG em soro, adaptadas para papel filtro, e a técnica de avidez de IgG em soro e em papel filtro. Os valores obtidos para o teste de avidez foram classificados de acordo com o protocolo de Rahbari. Resultados Dentre as 177 recoletas, em 17 amostras foi realizada a coleta simultânea de sangue periférico e papel filtro da mesma criança. Nesta análise, 1 (5,88%) das 17 amostras coletadas em duplicata obteve também baixa avidez de IgG, sugerindo infecção congênita da criança, e houve concordância entre os resultados obtidos em soro e em papel filtro: 16 (94,12%) das amostras apresentaram alta avidez, com concordância de 100% entre os resultados obtidos em soro e em papel filtro. Conclusão Os dados do presente trabalho evidenciam que o teste de avidez poderá ser mais um método valioso a ser utilizado no diagnóstico da toxoplasmose congênita em RNs.