Toxoplasmosis

Question 1

What Protozoal Parasite causes Toxoplasmosis?

Answer 1

Toxoplasma gondii (Intracellular Coccidian Parasite)

Question 2

Toxoplasma gondii has worldwide distribution. Who is the definitive host?

Answer 2

Feline

Question 3

Toxoplasma gondii intermediate host

Answer 3

Human and other warm-blooded animals

Question 4

Toxoplasma gondii transmission

Answer 4

1. Fecal-oral route
2. Eating contaminated meat from an intermediate host
3. Transplacental Route

Question 5

Diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis

Answer 5

-Positive ELISA test or titers
-Chest Radiographs
-CBC/Chem

Question 6

Treatment of Toxoplasmosis

Answer 6

Antibiotics: Clindamycin BID for 2-3 weeks

Question 7

Clinical Signs

Answer 7

Respiratory Disease
Pancreatic Disease
Icterus
CNS Disease
Anorexia & Weight Loss
Fever & Lethargy
V/D
Lameness
Anterior Uveitis, Glaucoma
Sudden Death

Question 8

What is Vertical Transmission?

Answer 8

Parent to offspring

Question 9

Toxoplasmosis has Zoonotic potential. Who is of special concern?

Answer 9

Pregnant women

Question 10

Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii is common. What percentage of adult humans are seropositive for exposure?

Answer 10

30 to 60 percent