Case report of toxoplasmosis in a pregnant womaen and her newborn, 2023

DOI: 10.6524/EB.202502_41(3).0002

Ting-Wen Shih*, Kung-Ching Wang, Du-Ling Lin, Shao-Hui Tsai, Ching-Fen Ko, Jhy-Wen Wu

2025 Vol.41 NO.3

Correspondence Author： Ting-Wen Shih

Abstract：

    In 2023, a case study of a pregnant woman was diagnosed with toxoplasmosis at 28 weeks of gestation. At 36 weeks, she delivered a boy and a girl. The female newborn tested negative for toxoplasmosis-specific IgM antibodies but positive for IgG antibodies with moderate avidity. She also had chorioretinitis in her left eye, leading to a diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. Vertical transmission from mother to child can occur when a pregnant woman contracts toxoplasmosis in early pregnancy. This transmission can result in severe congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns. Infected infants may present with intracranial or ocular lesions, placing significant financial and caregiving burdens on their primary caregivers. To prevent congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns, it is crucial to prioritize health education regarding toxoplasmosis for households with women of childbearing age. Additionally, cat owners should receive education on proper cat care practices. We also recommend that women who are pregnant or plan to be pregnant consult a physician for evaluation of risk and the need for toxoplasmosis testing.