Toxoplasmosis is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, commonly found in cat faeces, infected meat or soil.

Most people who contract toxoplasmosis are asymptomatic or have a mild flu-like illness.

If a pregnant woman becomes infected for the first time during her pregnancy, the infection may spread to the developing foetus and cause serious illness known as congenital toxoplasmosis.

Infection in the earlier weeks of gestation leads to a worse outcome.

Clinical features

Toxoplasmosis infection in pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, neonatal death, premature labour, low birthweight.

Many infected infants are asymptomatic, however may go on to develop symptoms later in life such as:

• CNS problems such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy and hydrocephalus
• learning disability
• visual impairment
• hearing loss

Diagnosis

• Antenatal ultrasound to look for foetal abnormalities
• Amniocentesis with PCR testing
• Maternal IgM testing can be used to check for previous exposure
• Foetal blood test

Management

The antibiotic spiramycin is used to treat toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and is thought to reduce transmission to the baby.