Table Of Contents

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan that takes refuge in the brain mucosa. Causes symptoms similar to a brain abscess due to multiple space-occupying lesions.

  • Signs and symptoms
    • Fever
    • Headache
    • Confusion
    • Focal neurological deficits (weakness, palsies, paralysis)
  • Investigations
    • CT or MRI:
      • Ring-enhancing lesions (similar to brain abscess)
    • T.gondii serology (IgG and IgM): most accurate with a positive imaging test
  • Treatment
    • Pyrimethamine AND sulfadiazine for 6 weeks + leucovorin
    • Pyrimethamine AND clindamycin (if patient has sulfur allergy) for 6 weeks + leucovorin
    • Trimethroprim AND sulphamethoxazole for 4 weeks
  • Prophylaxis
    • TMP/SMX for CD4 < 200
    • Dapsone AND Atovaquone
Dr. Jeffrey Kalei
Dr. Jeffrey Kalei

Creator and illustrator at Hyperexcision. Interested in emergency room medicine. I have a passion for medical education and drawing.

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