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.

Toxoplasmosis en el embarazo: Características epidemiológicas, clínicas y laboratoriales en un centro de referencia

La toxoplasmosis es una zoonosis causada por el protozoarioToxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), de gran impacto en la salud fetal cuando se adquiere durante el embarazo, debido al riesgo de transmisión vertical. Puede producir manifestaciones clínicas en los recién nacidos: coriorretinitis, hidrocefalia, calcificaciones y retardo psicomotor. La detección precoz y la instauración de una terapéutica adecuada son claves para evitar complicaciones asociadas a la transmisión materno fetal. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas de gestantes con diagnóstico de toxoplasmosis y de los recién nacidos de éstas, durante los años 2018 al 2021 que acudieron al Servicio de Infectología del Instituto de Previsión Social (IPS). Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte trasversal, utilizando un registro de datos de pacientes gestantes que acudieron al IPS durante los años 2018 al 2021. Resultados: Se incluyeron 62 gestantes; mediana de edad de 30 años, (21-44 años); 4 (6%) gestantes, realizaron su primera consulta en el primer trimestre, 39 (63%) en el segundo y 19 (31%) en el tercer trimestre. 9 (15%) pacientes fueron clasificadas como seroconversión, y 53 (85%) con sospecha de infección aguda. 55 pacientes fueron sometidas a amniocentesis; 26 (47%) tuvieron resultado de PCR detectable para Toxoplasma gondii en liquido amniótico, y 29 (53%) no detectable. Sólo 19 recién nacidos contaban con serologías para diagnóstico de toxoplasmosis congénita. Entre las complicaciones fetales se encontraron macrocefalia, e ictericia del RN.

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), with a great impact on fetal health when acquired during pregnancy, due to the risk of vertical transmission. It can produce clinical manifestations in newborns: chorioretinitis, hydrocephalus, calcifications and psychomotor retardation. Early detection and the establishment of adequate therapy are key to avoiding complications associated with fetal-maternal transmission. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of pregnant women diagnosed with toxoplasmosis and their newborns, during the years 2018 to 2021 who attended the Infectious Diseases Service of the Social Welfare Institute (IPS). Materials and methods: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, using a data registry of pregnant patients who attended the IPS during the years 2018 to 2021. Results: 62 pregnant women were included; median age 30 years, (21-44 years); 4 (6%) pregnant women had their first consultation in the first trimester, 39 (63%) in the second and 19 (31%) in the third trimester. 9 (15%) patients were classified as having seroconversion, and 53 (85%) with suspected acute infection. 55 patients underwent amniocentesis; 26 (47%) had detectable PCR results for Toxoplasma gondii in amniotic fluid, and 29 (53%) undetectable. Only 19 newborns had serology tests for the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. Among the fetal complications were macrocephaly, and newborn jaundice.

Congenital ocular toxoplasmosis in consecutive siblings / Toxoplasmose ocular congênita em irmãos consecutivos

ABSTRACT Toxoplasma gondii infection can cause ocular manifestations after acquired and congenital disease. We report two cases of symptomatic congenital toxoplasmosis with ocular involvement in non-twin siblings, with a 2-year interval between pregnancies. Vertical transmission of toxoplasmosis in successive pregnancies, which was once considered impossible, is now found to be plausible even in immunocompetent subjects.

RESUMO A infecção pelo Toxoplasma gondii pode causar manifestações oculares tanto após a sua forma congênita quanto a sua forma adquirida. Reportamos aqui dois casos de toxoplasmose congênita sintomática com envolvimento ocular em irmãos não gêmeos, com intervalo de 2 anos entre gestações. A transmissão vertical da toxoplasmose em gestações sucessivas, outrora considerada impossível, é um evento plausível mesmo em indivíduos imunocompetentes.

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.

Psychometric properties of CVFQ7-BR-toxo to evaluate vision-related quality of life in children with congenital toxoplasmosis in Brazil / Propriedades psicométricas do CVFQ7-BR-toxo para avaliar a qualidade de vida relacionada à visão em crianças com toxoplasmose congênita no Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose: The high prevalence and severity of congenital toxoplasmosis in Brazil, with several affected individuals progressing to low vision, emphasize the importance of evaluating their quality of life. In this study, the Children's Visual Function Questionnaire (CVFQ) was adapted to the sociocultural context of Brazilian children, and its psychometric properties were investigated for evaluating the vision-related quality of life of these individuals. Methods: This was a nested cross-sectional epidemiological study that prospectively monitored a cohort of 142 preschool children at a single referral university hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. All children underwent complete ophthalmological examination, including visual acuity testing and binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Questionnaires were applied to their parents and caregivers to evaluate quality of life perception, as well as socioeconomic status of their families. Psychometric properties of the quality of life scale were evalua­ted by multivariate statistical analyses. Results: Adaptation to the Brazilian version of CVFQ-7 resulted in CVFQ-BR-toxo, a questionnaire for evaluating the perception of parents/caregivers about the vision-related quality of life of preschool children with congenital toxoplasmosis. The following six subscales were identified based on description, variability structure, and interpretation/grouping of items: general health, visual acuity, visual performance/functional vision, personal and social behavior, impact on family, and treatment. Children with low vision related to congenital toxoplasmosis had significantly lower scores for the following subscales: visual acuity (p=0.004), visual performance/functional vision (p=0.008), impact on family (p=0.001), and overall health (p=0.001). Conclusion: Psychometric properties were appropriate concerning the validity of the quality of life construct. CVFQ-BR-toxo could demonstrate the impact of vision impairment on families of children with congenital toxoplasmosis.

RESUMO Objetivo: A alta prevalência e gravidade da toxoplasmose congênita no Brasil, com muitos indivíduos afetados desenvolvendo baixa visão, reforça a importância da avaliação da sua qualidade de vida. Este estudo tem como objetivo adaptar o Children's Visual Function Questionnaire (CVFQ) para a realidade sociocultural de crianças brasileiras e investigar suas propriedades psicométricas para avaliação da qualidade de vida relacionada à visão nesses indivíduos. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico transversal aninhado de coorte de 142 crianças pré-escolares acompanhadas prospectivamente em hospital universitário de referência em Belo Horizonte, Brasil. Todas foram submetidos a exame oftalmológico completo, incluindo medida da acuidade visual e oftalmoscopia binocular indireta. Questionários foram aplicados aos pais e cuidadores, para avaliar a percepção da qualidade de vida, bem como o nível sócio-econômico das famílias. Análise estatística multivariada foi realizada para avaliar as propriedades psicométricas da escala de qualidade de vida. Resultados: Adaptações na versão brasileira do Children's Visual Function Questionnaire-7 originaram o Children's Visual Function Questionnaire-7-BR-toxo, um questionário para avaliar a percepção de pais/cuidadores sobre a qualidade de vida relacionada à visão de crianças pré-escolares com toxoplasmose congênita. Pela descrição, estrutura de variabilidade, e interpretação do agrupamento dos itens do questionário adaptado, identificaram-se seis subescalas: saúde geral, capacidade visual, desempenho visual/visão funcional, comportamento social e pessoal, impacto na família e tratamento. Crianças com baixa visão associada a toxoplasmose congênita tiveram escores mais baixos nas seguintes subescalas: acuidade visual (p=0,004), desempenho visual/visão funcional (p=0,008), impacto na família (p=0,001) e saúde geral (p=0,001). Conclusão: As propriedades psicométricas foram adequadas no tocante à validade do construto. O Children's Visual Function Questionnaire-7-BR-toxo foi capaz de registrar o impacto da deficiência visual nas famílias de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita.

Evaluación de la prueba de avidez para el seguimiento de niños tratados por toxoplasmosis congénita durante el primer año de vida / Evaluation of the avidity test for the follow up on children treated for congenital toxoplasmosis during the first year of life

RESUMEN Objetivos: determinar la utilidad de la prueba de avidez en el seguimiento de los pacientes diagnosticados con toxoplasmosis congénita a través de la evaluación de su comportamiento en el tiempo. Metodología: estudio retrospectivo a partir de los datos en historias clínicas de niños que tuvieron confirmación diagnóstica y tratamiento para toxoplasmosis congénita, realizado en consulta de toxoplasmosis, tercer nivel de referencia en el centro de salud de la Universidad del Quindío. Se estudiaron 21 niños que fueron seleccionados de una cohorte inicial de 168 pacientes, reclutados en los programas de tamizaje prenatal y los programas de prevención o niños que acudieron para el diagnóstico neonatal. Resultados: no se encontró relación estadísticamente significativa entre el porcentaje de avidez baja en el primer mes y haber recibido tratamiento prenatal (p = 0,47). Tampoco entre la primera y los niveles de IgG o los meses de vida, a pesar de haber recibido tratamiento posnatal. Sin embargo, al estudiar específicamente el grupo de niños de 5 meses de edad, se encontró una correlación significativa con los niveles de IgG anti-Toxoplasma (p = 0,01). Conclusión: en esta cohorte de niños colombianos con toxoplasmosis congénita se encontraron los mismos resultados reportados en series previas con un mayor número de casos en Italia. La avidez no mostró ser útil para el seguimiento de los niños con toxoplasmosis congénita.

SUMMARY Objectives: To determine the use of avidity testing in the follow up of patients diagnosed with congenital toxoplasmosis, through the observation of its behavior in time. Methods: Retrospective study from clinical records of children with confirmed diagnosis and treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis, which took place on atoxoplasmosis consultation in the third reference level University of Quindío clinic. A total of 21 children were selected among an initial cohort of 168 patients, recruited during prenatal screening, neonatal screening or children that attended for neonatal diagnosis. Results: There was no statistical significance found between low avidity during the first month and having received prenatal treatment (p=0,47). There was no statistical relationship either between the percentage of avidity and the levels of IgG or the months of age, despite having received postnatal treatment. Nevertheless, when studying specifically the group of children > 5 months of age a significant correlation was found with levels of IgG (p=0,01). Conclusion: In this cohort of Colombian children with congenital toxoplasmosis, the same results were found comparing with those reported in series with greater number of cases. Avidity testing did not prove to be useful for the follow up of children with congenital toxoplasmosis.

Perfil epidemiológico dos casos de toxoplasmose gestacional e congênita decorrentes do surto populacional / Epidemiological profile of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis cases arising out of the population outbreak

Objetivo: traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos casos de toxoplasmose gestacional e congênita notificados na cidade de Santa Maria ­ RS, decorrentes do surto ocorrido no ano de 2018 e investigar a associação entre as variáveis maternas e o diagnóstico do bebê. Método: foram avaliados retrospectivamente os casos notificados entre o período de março de 2018 a março de 2019. O diagnóstico do bebê e variáveis maternas foram analisados através de estatística descritiva e teste qui-quadrado. Resultados: Durante o período do estudo, foram notificados 206 casos de toxoplasmose gestacional, dos quais 74 foram confirmados como infecção recente. A transmissão vertical foi confirmada em 27% dos casos. Houve maior freqüência de transmissão em gestantes que tiveram o diagnóstico no terceiro trimestre de gestação (p=0,001) e que não realizaram tratamento durante a gestação (p<0,001). Conclusão: A ocorrência da toxoplasmose congênita está associada ao diagnóstico tardio, no último trimestre da gestação, e consequente falta do tratamento adequado. Ainda, houve uma alta prevalência de crianças infectadas por transmissão vertical decorrentes do surto, o que reforça a importância de um acompanhamento pré-natal e a atenção à necessidade da realização do tratamento e cuidado adequados no decorrer do desenvolvimento das crianças infectadas.

Objective: To trace the epidemiological profile of cases of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis reported in the city of Santa Maria - RS, resulting from the outbreak that occurred in 2018 and to investigate the association between maternal variables and the baby's diagnosis. Method: Cases reported between March 2018 and March 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The baby's diagnosis and maternal variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. Results: During the study period, 206 cases of gestational toxoplasmosis were reported, of which 74 were confirmed as a recent infection. Vertical transmission was confirmed in 27% of cases. There was a higher frequency of transmission in pregnant women who were diagnosed in the third trimester of pregnancy (p = 0.001) and who did not undergo treatment during pregnancy (p <0.001). Conclusion: The occurrence of congenital toxoplasmosis is associated with late diagnosis, in the last trimester of pregnancy, and consequent lack of adequate treatment. In addition, there was a high prevalence of children infected by vertical transmission due to the outbreak, which reinforces the importance of prenatal care and attention to the need for adequate treatment and care during the development of infected children.

Recém-nascidos com risco de toxoplasmose congênita, revisão de 16 anos / Newborns at risk for congenital toxoplasmosis, review of 16 years

OBJETIVOS: Analisar os dados de gestações com risco de toxoplasmose congênita e investigar a evolução dos recém-nascidos, em um hospital de nível II em Portugal. MÉTODOS: Um estudo transversal retrospetivo incluiu recém-nascidos com risco de toxoplasmose congênita e suas mães, cujo parto ocorreu entre janeiro de 2000 e dezembro de 2015. Os critérios de inclusão foram mãe com soroconversão para toxoplasmose durante a gestação ou primeira amostra sérica com IgM e IgG específicas positivas. O diagnóstico de toxoplasmose congênita foi definido por IgM específica positiva ao nascimento e/ou reação em cadeia da polimerase positiva no líquido amniótico e/ou persistência de IgG específica até os 12 meses de vida. A toxoplasmose congênita foi definida como sintomática quando os achados clínicos foram atribuídos à doença. Os testes Qui-quadrado ou Exato de Fisher foram usados para testar associações entre variáveis, assumindo-se significado estatístico quando p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Ocorreram 39.585 nascimentos vivos no período em estudo e foram identificados 98 casos com risco de toxoplasmose congênita, dos quais 89 completaram o seguimento. A prevalência de IgG para T. gondii nas gestantes foi de 26% (intervalo de confiança [IC] 95% 24-27%). Foram confirmados 22 casos de toxoplasmose congênita (5,6 por 10.000 nascidos vivos, IC95% 3,5-8,5 por 10.000). Dos 22 recém-nascidos, 18 (82%, IC95% 61-93%) eram sintomáticos. Os achados clínicos mais frequentes foram calcificação intracraniana (64%), hepatomegalia e/ou elevação das transaminases (32%) e retinocoroidite (14%). As lesões cerebrais foram mais frequentes quando a infeção materna foi documentada no primeiro e segundo trimestres em comparação com o terceiro (p=0,018). Em 31 casos (35%), as gestantes foram tratadas desde o momento do diagnóstico até o parto com espiramicina, não se tendo encontrado diferenças relativamente à taxa de transmissão vertical ou ao aparecimento de manifestações clínicas entre os recém-nascidos de mães tratadas e não tratadas. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de toxoplasmose congênita foi superior à reportada em outros países da Europa. A prevalência de calcificações intracranianas foi maior do que a descrita na literatura, enquanto que a de retinocoroidite e estrabismo foi menor. As alterações cerebrais nos recém-nascidos foram mais frequentes nas infecções de primeiro e segundo trimestre. Não houve diferença na taxa de transmissão vertical e na ocorrência de manifestações clínicas entre os recém-nascidos cujas mães receberam espiramicina na gestação ou não receberam tratamento.

AIMS: To analyze the data on pregnancies with risk of congenital toxoplasmosis and to investigate the newborns' outcome, in a level II hospital in Portugal. METHODS: A cross-sectional retrospective study included newborns at risk for congenital toxoplasmosis and their mothers, whose delivery occurred between January 2000 and December 2015. The inclusion criteria were mother with seroconversion to toxoplasmosis during pregnancy or first serum sample with positive specific IgM and IgG. The diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis was defined by positive specific IgM at birth and/or polymerase chain reaction positive in amniotic fluid and/or persistence of specific IgG up to 12 months of life. Congenital toxoplasmosis was defined as symptomatic when clinical findings were attributed to the disease. Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests were used to test associations between variables, assuming statistical significance when p<0.05. RESULTS: There were 39,585 live births in the study period and 98 cases with risk of congenital toxoplasmosis were identified, of which 89 completed the follow-up. The prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG in the pregnant women was 26% (95% confidence interval [CI] 24-27%). Twenty-two cases of congenital toxoplasmosis (5.6 per 10,000 live births, 95%CI 3.5-8.5 per 10,000) were confirmed. Of the 22 newborns, 18 (82%, 95%CI 61-93%) were symptomatic. The most frequent clinical findings were intracranial calcification (64%), hepatomegaly and / or elevation of transaminases (32%) and retinochoroiditis (14%). Cerebral lesions were more frequent when maternal infection was documented in the first and second trimester compared to the third trimester (p=0.018). In 31 cases (35%), the pregnant women were treated from the time of diagnosis until delivery with spiramycin, and no differences were found regarding the rate of vertical transmission or the appearance of clinical manifestations among the newborns of treated and non-treated mothers treated. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of congenital toxoplasmosis was higher than that reported in other European countries. The prevalence of intracranial calcifications was higher than that described in the literature, whereas retinochoroiditis and strabismus occurrence was lower. Brain lesions in newborns were more frequent in first- and second-trimester infections. There was no difference in the rate of vertical transmission and in the occurrence of clinical manifestations among newborns whose mothers received spiramycin during gestation and those whose mothers did not receive treatment.

Hearing Disorders in Congenital Toxoplasmosis: A Literature Review

Abstract Introduction Several studies show correlations between congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing loss, with a broad diversity of levels of hearing loss and specifications of hearing disorders. Objective To describe the studies found in the literature regarding hearing disorders in congenital toxoplasmosis. Data Synthesis A literature review was conducted on the Lilacs, SciELO, PubMed and Scopus databases by combining the following keywords: congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing. Based on this search strategy, 152 papers were found, the majority published on the Scopus and PubMed databases from1958 to 2015. After theapplication of the inclusion criteria, 8 articles published between 1980 and 2015 were included in the present study. Conclusion This review showed a moderate evidence of the association between hearing disorders and congenital toxoplasmosis, which is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss. However, there are gaps in the description of the specific characteristics of the type and level of hearing loss, or of other possible disorders involved in the auditory processing.

Toxoplasmosis cerebral congénita e infección por el virus del Zika y del chikunguña: reporte de un caso / Congenital cerebral toxoplasmosis, Zika and chikungunya virus infections: A case report

Resumen En este artículo se describe el caso clínico de una mujer colombiana del sur del país con diagnóstico de infección intrauterina por Toxoplasma gondii y por los virus del chikungunya y del Zika. La mujer acudió al control prenatal en el segundo trimestre de su embarazo e informó que durante el primer trimestre había presentado síntomas indicativos de infección por el virus del Zika. Mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) en líquido amniótico, se demostró infección por Toxoplasma gondii así como por los virus del chikungunya y del Zika. En las imágenes diagnósticas se observaron malformaciones del sistema nervioso central en el feto. A las 29 semanas de gestación se dio por terminado el embarazo mediante procedimiento médico.

Abstract We report a case of intrauterine infection by Toxoplasma gondii, Chikungunya and Zika viruses in a Colombian woman from the southern part of the country. The patient attended prenatal care in the second trimester of her pregnancy and she informed that in the first trimester she had presented with clinical symptoms compatible with Zika virus infection. Amniotic fluid PCR assays showed infection by T. gondii, chikungunya and Zika viruses. Diagnostic imaging showed fetal malformation of the central nervous system. At 29 weeks of gestation, pregnancy was terminated medically.

Efecto del tratamiento prenatal con espiramicina en la frecuencia de retinocoroiditis por toxoplasmosis congénita en una cohorte colombiana / Effect of antenatal spiramycin treatment on the frequency of retinochoroiditis due to congenital toxoplasmosis in a Colombian cohort

Resumen Introducción. La toxoplasmosis de la gestación es frecuente y grave. Hasta ahora no hay consenso sobre la utilidad del tratamiento para prevenir complicaciones oculares en el neonato. En la actualidad, uno de los medicamentos utilizados en las madres diagnosticadas es la espiramicina oral. Infortunadamente, en algunas mujeres gestantes no se hace el diagnóstico prenatal y, por esta u otras razones, no reciben el tratamiento. Objetivo. Describir la relación entre el tratamiento con espiramicina durante el embarazo en madres con toxoplasmosis de la gestación y la presentación de toxoplasmosis ocular en los recién nacidos. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional descriptivo de serie de casos. Se evaluó una serie prospectiva de pacientes con toxoplasmosis de la gestación durante tres años de seguimiento en el Servicio de Retinología de la Clínica Universitaria Bolivariana de Medellín. Resultados. Se registraron 23 madres con diagnóstico de toxoplasmosis de la gestación. Quince de ellas (65 %) recibieron durante la gestación tratamiento con espiramicina en dosis de 3 g al día; uno de los neonatos (6,6 %) presentó toxoplasmosis ocular. De las ocho (35 %) pacientes que no recibieron tratamiento, cinco (62,5 %) tuvieron hijos con compromiso ocular por toxoplasma. La razón de momios (odds ratio, OR) del efecto protector contra dicho compromiso en los pacientes cuyas madres recibieron tratamiento fue de 0,04 (IC95% 0,00-0,67), con valor de p menor de 0,01 en la prueba exacta de Fisher. Solo se evidenció compromiso del sistema nervioso central por toxoplasmosis mediante las imágenes de tomografía o ecografía cerebral en dos (14 %) pacientes de las 14 en quienes se hicieron estos estudios. Los dos pacientes presentaron, además, compromiso ocular; ambos fueron diagnosticados en el momento del nacimiento y sus madres no habían recibido tratamiento prenatal. Conclusiones. Estos resultados evidencian que el tratamiento con espiramicina durante el embarazo en la toxoplasmosis de la gestación redujo en 96 % (IC95% 33-100 %) el riesgo relativo de presentar la enfermedad en el recién nacido.

Abstrat Introduction: Gestational toxoplasmosis is frequent and severe. There is still debate about the benefits of treatment against ocular manifestations in the newborn. Spiramycin treatment is used for this purpose, unfortunately prenatal diagnosis is sometimes delayed and pregnant women are not treated. Objective: To describe the relationship between treatment with spiramycin during pregnancy in mothers with gestational toxoplasmosis and development of ocular toxoplasmosis in newborns. Materials and methods: We conducted a descriptive study of a case series. We evaluated a prospective cohort of patients diagnosed with gestational toxoplasmosis during three years at the Retinology Service at the Clínica Universitaria Bolivariana in Medellín. Results: Gestational toxoplasmosis was found in 23 mothers; 15 (65%) were treated during pregnancy with 3 g per day of spiramycin, eight (35%) patients were untreated. In the treated group just one newborn developed ocular toxoplasmosis (6.6%), in contrast with five (62.5%) of the eight patients who did not receive treatment. These results suggest that pregnancy treatment reduces the relative risk of ocular toxoplasmosis in the newborn by 96% (95% CI: 33 - 100%). Only two (14%) of the patients who were evaluated, had nervous system involvement related to toxoplasmosis in CT scan or cerebral ultrasound. These two patients also developed ocular pathology and were diagnosed at the time of birth, so they did not received antenatal treatment. Conclusions: A protective effect was found against the ocular involvement in patients whose mother received treatment with spiramycin (OR=0.04;95% CI: 0.00-0.67), p<0.01 (Fisher's Exact Test).

Estudo transversal do perfil das infecções congênitas atendidas entre 2012 e 2014 em um centro de referência em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais / Cross-sectional study of clinical and laboratorial aspects of congenital infections attended at a reference Center in Belo Horizonte, MG, 2012-2014

Introdução: as infecções congênitas são resultantes da transmissão vertical de microrganismos de gestantes infectadas para seus conceptos. Apesar dessas infecções, em geral, cursarem com pouca ou nenhuma manifestação clínica nas gestantes, a infecção fetal pode trazer morbimortalidade perinatal e na infância. Objetivo: identificar a prevalência das infecções congênitas encaminhadas ao Centro de Referência e Treinamento em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias Orestes Diniz (CTR/DIP Orestes Diniz) e avaliar os métodos laboratoriais usados para o diagnóstico. Métodos: estudo transversal realizado em ambulatório de referência em doenças infecciosas, a partir de coleta de dados de prontuários de crianças com diagnóstico suspeito de infecção congênita. A confirmação diagnóstica baseou-se em testes sorológicos ou de biologia molecular, além de descrição de sintomatologia da criança. Resultados: um total de 513 crianças foram identificadas, sendo que 41,3% tiveram o diagnóstico confirmado, a maioria foi de toxoplasmose (45,35%) e sífilis (15,98%). Entre as crianças com diagnóstico confirmado, 28,85% apresentaram manifestações clínicas, enquanto que no grupo com diagnóstico indeterminado ou suspeito o percentual foi de 16,38%. As principais manifestações identificadas foram acometimento do sistema nervoso central (n=39) e alterações visuais (n=30). Conclusão: a confirmação de infecção foi definida em aproximadamente metade dos pacientes avaliados e a maioria das crianças foi assintomática ao nascimento. O pré-natal de qualidade e a propedêutica e tratamento precoce das crianças identificadas podem reduzir o impacto dessas infecções no nosso meio.(AU)

Introduction: congenital infections are results of microorganisms transmitted to the fetus by the infected pregnant. Most newborn infants infected during pregnancy or labor have no sings of congenital disease. However, these infections may cause perinatal and infancy morbidity and mortality. Objective: to determine the prevalence of congenital infections in newborns and infants attended at the CTR/DIP Orestes Diniz (Centro de Treinamento e Referência em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias Orestes Diniz) and to analyse the laboratorial methods used for diagnosis of congenital disease of assisted children. Methods: cross-sectional study conducted in an Infectious Diseases Reference Center where it was evaluated the charts of infants with suspected congenital infection. Diagnosis confirmation was based on serological tests, molecular biology and signs and symptoms described in the charts. Results: A total of 41,3% of the 513 children identified have had a defined diagnosis. Most of them had toxoplasmosis (45,35%) and syphilis (15,98%). Clinical manifestations was observed in 28,85% of children with defined diagnosis of congenital infection, and in 16,38% of children with uncertain diagnosis. Central Nervous System (n=39) and ocular (n=30) manifestations were the most frequent findings. Conclusions: Defined diagnosis was possible in about half of cases and most of them were asymptomatic at birth. An appropriate prenatal care and early diagnosis and treatment of congenital infections may reduce the impact of disease in the population.(AU)

Revisão sistemática dos métodos sorológicos utilizados em gestantes nos programas de triagem diagnóstica pré-natal da toxoplasmose / Systematic review of serological methods used in prenatal screening of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women

Informações sobre a melhor estratégia para triagem sorológica da toxoplasmose em gestantes são escassas e poucos estudos mencionam o uso de amostras de sangue capilar. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática para pesquisar os métodos sorológicos empregados em programas de triagem pré-natal da toxoplasmose no mundo e as características principais destes programas, com busca nas bases de dados PUBMED e LILACS. Foram selecionados artigos referentes a programas de triagem sorológica pré-natal da toxoplasmose que descrevessem a amostra (sangue capilar ou soro) e o teste sorológico utilizado. Foram encontrados 1554 trabalhos no PUBMED e 242 na LILACS, sendo 58 em duplicata. Foram analisados 47 artigos finais. Os testes sorológicos de triagem citados com maior frequência foram os imunoenzimáticos para detecção de IgG (19 ou 40,4%) e IgM (18 ou 38,3%) e, entre os testes confirmatórios, o mais utilizado foi o teste de avidez de IgG (14 ou 29,8%). Todos os estudos analisados utilizaram amostras de soro para a triagem pré-natal da toxoplasmose.

The best strategy for toxoplasmosis serological screening in pregnant women is not completely defined and few studies mention the use of capillary blood samples. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to investigate the serological methods used in prenatal screening programs of toxoplasmosis in the world and the main features of these programs, with search in PubMed and LILACS databases. We selected articles that described their serological prenatal screening programs, with mention of the sample (capillary blood or serum) and of the serological tests used. We found 1554 articles in PubMed database and 242 articles in LILACS, with 58 duplicates. 47 final articles were analyzed. The serological screening tests most frequently cited were immunoassays for the detection of IgG (19, 40.4%) and IgM (18, 38.3%) and between confirmatory tests, the most used was IgG avidity test (14, 29.8%). All analyzed studies used serum samples for toxoplasmosis prenatal screening. There is need for studies assessing and testing different samples in longitudinal studies.

Aborto espontâneo e toxoplasmose ocular em um casal infectado com Toxoplasma gondii / Spontaneous abortion and ocular toxoplasmosis in a couple infected with Toxoplasma gondii

OBJETIVOS: Relatar os casos de um casal, em que a esposa apresentou toxoplasmose na gestação e o esposo, após 15 anos, foi diagnosticado com toxoplasmose ocular. RELATO DOS CASOS: Gestante, grávida de gêmeos, residente de um estado na região Sul do Brasil. No primeiro mês de gestação apresentou sorologia não reagente para IgG e IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii. Na sétima semana de gestação houve soroconversão (IgM e IgG anti-T.gondii reagentes) e aborto natural. O esposo, após 15 anos desde o episódio da esposa, queixou-se de visão embaçada/irritada. O exame de fundoscopia revelou lesões típicas de coriorretinite recidivante por toxoplasmose no olho direito. Os exames sorológicos foram IgG anti-T.gondii reagente e IgM anti-T.gondii não reagente. CONCLUSÕES: Este relato, de um casal com desfechos clínicos importantes de toxoplasmose, em diferentes formas, enfatiza a relevância do problema da toxoplasmose, que nas suas diversas manifestações, pode trazer graves consequências para a vida de uma família.

AIMS: To report the cases of wife and husband with toxoplasmosis. The woman acquired the infection during pregnancy while her husband was diagnosed with ocular toxoplasmosis 15 years later. CASES REPORT: A woman with twin pregnancy, living in southern Brazil, was seronegative for Toxoplasma gondii IgG and IgM antibodies in the first month of gestation. Seroconversion (positive T. gondii IgM and IgG antibodies) occurred in the seventh week of gestation, resulting in spontaneous abortion. Fifteen years later, her husband presented with eye irritation and blurred vision. The funduscopic examination revealed typical lesions of recurrent chorioretinitis in the right eye. The serological tests were positive for T. gondii IgG and negative for IgM. CONCLUSIONS: This report of a couple with important clinical outcomes of two different types of toxoplasmosis underscores the importance of this disease which, in its various manifestations, may have serious consequences for a family's life.

Seguimiento clínico y serológico de recién nacidos con IgM materna reactiva para toxoplasmosis. Policlínica de Infectología pediátrica. Hospital Escuela del Litoral, Paysandú. Años 2008-2013 / Clinical and serologic follow-up of newborns with maternal Igm toxoplasmosis positive. Pediatrics Infectious Diseases Polyclinic

Introducción: la infección por Toxoplasma gondii durante el embarazo puede resultar en graves complicaciones para el feto y dejar importantes secuelas en el recién nacido (RN). El objetivo del estudio fue realizar un seguimiento clínico y serológico de los recién nacidos cuyas madres tenían IgM reactiva para toxoplasmosis en el embarazo y analizar las características clínicas y serológicas de los que presentaron toxoplasmosis congénita (TC). Material y método: estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y longitudinal de RN cuyas madres tuvieron serología IgM reactiva en el embarazo y que fueron derivados para su seguimiento a la Policlínica de Infectología Pediátrica del Hospital de Paysandú en el período junio de 2008 a junio de 2013. Resultados: de los 51 RN evaluados, 50 fueron de término con una media de peso al nacer de 3.120 g y 5 fueron pequeños para la edad gestacional (PEG). Dos presentaron microcefalia y dos estuvieron expuestos a otras infecciones durante el embarazo (sífilis y virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana). De los 42 (82,3%) que completaron su seguimiento, en siete se diagnosticó TC (13,7%) y se descartó la infección en 35 (68,5%). En éstos la media de desaparición de la IgG fue de 6,2 meses. Tres de los infectados fueron sintomáticos y tenían IgM reactiva al nacer. Cuatro presentaron secuelas en la evolución. De ocho RN a los que se les indicó tratamiento, tres lo completaron. En 6 (85,7%) de los infectados se confirmó la seroconversión materna durante el embarazo. Conclusiones: si bien la TC no es muy frecuente en nuestro país, la morbilidad es muy importante. La presencia de seroconversión materna obliga a estudiar y tratar al RN hasta que se descarte la infección. La serología en el RN demuestra, en nuestro medio, una escasa sensibilidad y a falta de otras técnicas obliga a realizar el seguimiento clínico y serológico con IgG durante el primer año de vida.

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy can result in serious complications for the fetus and causes serious sequelae in the newborn. The study aimed to conduct a clinical and serological follow-up of newborns whose mothers were toxoplasma IgM positive during pregnancy and to analyze the clinical and serological evolution of those with congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) features. Method: descriptive, prospective, longitudinal study of newborns whose mothers were toxoplasma IgM positive during pregnancy and who were referred for follow-up to the Pediatrics Infectious Diseases Polyclinic. Escuela del Litoral Hospital, Paysandú, from June, 2008 through June, 2013. Results: out of 51 newborns assessed, 50 were term newborns with a mean birth weight of 3,120 g and 5 were small for gestational age (SGA). Two had microcephaly and 2 were exposed to other infections during pregnancy (syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus). Seven (13.7%) of the 42 (82.3%) newborns who completed follow-up CT were diagnosed with toxoplasmosis, and infection was ruled out in 35 (68.5%) newborns. In the latter half of the disappearance of IgG was 6.2 months. Three (43%) were infected symptomatic and had reactive IgM at birth. Four (57%) evidenced sequelae in evolution. Eight newborns were prescribed treatment, 3 of them completed it. In six (85.7%) of them infected maternal seroconversion during pregnancy was confirmed. Conclusions: although CT is not very common in our country, the disease is very important. The presence of maternal seroconversion forced to study and treat the newborns until infection is ruled out. Serology in the newborns demonstrates, in our environment, poor sensitivity and lack of other techniques necessary to undertake clinical and serological follow-up of IgM during the first year of life.

Abordagem neonatal nas infecções congênitas ? toxoplasmose e sífilis / The approach to neonatal congenital infections ? toxoplasmosis and syphilis

As infecções que acometem o binômio mãe-filho durante a gestação constituem grande preocupação para obstetras e pediatras, por sua frequência e dificuldade no diagnóstico etiológico, importante para o tratamento precoce. A maioria dos recém-nascidos com infecções congênitas é assintomática, assinalando a importância da triagem laboratorial para doenças transmissíveis durante o ciclo gravídico-puerperal da mulher. Este artigo de revisão visa a apresentar recomendações em relação às infecções congênitas por Treponema pallidume Toxoplasma gondii. A sífilis é uma das doenças com maiores taxas de transmissão vertical e é um problema de saúde pública ainda com controle insuficiente no país. O diagnóstico da infecção materna, realizado com VDRL e confirmado com um teste treponêmico, indica tratamento imediato na gestante e em seu parceiro. A infecção congênita é prevenível por meio do tratamento materno adequado com penicilina benzatina, o que representa ótimo custo-benefício. A toxoplasmose é parasitose de distribuição mundial, com alta prevalência em nosso meio. O rastreamento sorológico durante o pré-natal permite a detecção das gestantes suscetíveis que devem ser priorizadas nas ações educativas e monitoradas para identificar-se possível soroconversão. O tratamento precoce da gestante com infecção aguda pode reduzir a transmissão materno-fetal ou o comprometimento do feto, melhorando o prognóstico do recém-nascido infectado. É possível evitar a sífilis e a toxoplasmose congênita por meio do pré-natal de qualidade, que deve ser disponível e acessível. Ações preventivas e diagnósticas devem ser intensificadas no acompanhamento da gestante, principalmente nas unidades básicas de saúde (UBS), de forma a gerar resultados com impacto populacional.

The infections that affect the binomial mother-son during pregnancy are of great concern to obstetricians and pediatricians because of its frequency and difficulty in reaching an etiological diagnosis that is important for early treatment. Most newborns with congenital infection are asymptomatic; this shows the importance of laboratory screening for diseases that are transmitted during the pregnancy-puerperal cycle of women. This review aims to provide recommendations with regard to congenital infection by Treponema pallidum and Toxoplasma gondii. Syphilis is one of the diseases with the highest rates of mother-to-child transmission and is a public health problem still with insufficient control in the country. The diagnosis of maternal infection, performed with VDRL and confirmed with a treponemic test, indicates immediate treatment in pregnant women and their partners. The congenital infection is preventable through adequate maternal treatment with benzathine penicillin, which presents great costbenefitvalue. Toxoplasmosis is a parasitosis of worldwide distribution, with high prevalence in our environment. The serological screening during the prenatal period allows the detection of susceptible pregnant women who should be prioritized in educational activities and monitored for possible seroconversion. The early treatment of pregnant women with acute infection can reduce the maternal-fetal transmission or fetal impairment improving the prognosis of infected newborns. Syphilis and congenital toxoplasmosis can be avoided with a high quality prenatal, whichshould be available and accessible. Preventive and diagnostic actions should be intensified in the monitoring of pregnant women, especially in the basic health units (UBS), to generate population impacting results.

Intervenção fonoaudiológica em um caso de toxoplasmose congênita / Speech therapy intervention in a case of congenital toxoplasmosis / Intervención fonoaudiológica en un caso de la toxoplasmosis congénita

Introdução: Os pontos de calcificação no cérebro e alterações nas vias de recepção provocadas pela toxoplasmose congênita implicam na necessidade de investigação do desempenho na linguagem e nas habilidades psicolinguísticas. Objetivo: descrever o processo de avaliação de Linguagem de uma criança com histórico de toxoplasmose congênita, assim como a proposta terapêutica e os resultados obtidos com a intervenção fonoaudiológica. Apresentação do caso clínico: O paciente V., gênero masculino, seis anos, cursando o ensino fundamental, foi submetido a 45 sessões de terapia fonoaudiológica, durante oito meses. Quanto à intervenção, foi utilizado o modelo psicolinguístico. Foram realizadas avaliações pré e pós-intervenção, utilizando testes para avaliar o nível fonológico, semântico, sintático e pragmático da linguagem. Resultados: Em relação à fonologia constatou-se que o total de processos fonológicos na imitação pré-intervenção foi de 56 e pós de 44. Já na prova de nomeação, foram observados 50 processos pré e 48 pós. Nos achados psicolinguísticos foi evidenciada evolução nas habilidades auditivo-vocais pós-intervenção fonoaudiológica. Comentários finais: Ressaltou-se a necessidade de uma avaliação abrangente da linguagem e das habilidades psicolinguísticas neste caso. De acordo com a proposta terapêutica utilizada, observou-se evolução nos níveis fonológico, semântico, sintático e pragmático da linguagem, porém estes ainda encontraram-se em defasagem quando relacionados à idade cronológica do paciente.

Introduction: Points of calcification in the brain and alteration in routes reception caused by congenital toxoplasmosis imply in the necessity of realizing an investigation of the performance of language and psycholinguistic abilities. Objective: to describe the language evaluation process in a case with history of congenital toxoplasmosis, as well as intervention proposed and the results obtained with speech therapy. Clinical case presentation: The patient, male, with six years old, student in elementary school, underwent 45 sessions of speech therapy during eight months. Regarding intervention, it was used the psycholinguistic model. The evaluations were performed pre and post-intervention, using tests to evaluate the phonological, semantic, syntactic and pragmatic language levels. Results: Regarding the phonology, it was found that the total phonological processes, in imitation test, before intervention was 56 processes and 44 processes after. In the naming test, 50 process cases were observed before, and 48 process cases after. In psycholinguistics results showed bigger gains in the auditory-vocal abilities post-intervention. Final comments: It was emphasized the need of a extensive assessment of language and psycholinguistic abilities in this case. According to the therapeutic proposed we observed changes in phonological, semantic, syntactic and pragmatic levels, but they still are in lag considering the chronological age of the patient.

Introducción: Puntos de calcificación en el cerebro y las alteraciones en las vías de recepción causados por toxoplasmosis congénita implican la necesidad de una investigación de la actuación en lenguaje y en las habilidades psicolingüísticas. Objetivo: describir el proceso de evaluación de lenguaje de un niño con antecedentes de toxoplasmosis congénita, así como la propuesta terapéutica y los resultados obtenidos con la intervención fonoaudiológica. Presentación del caso clínico: El paciente V., varón de 6 años, en la escuela primaria, se sometió a 45 sesiones de terapia fonoaudiológica durante ocho meses. Para la intervención se utilizó un modelo psicolingüístico. Se realizaron evaluaciones pre y post-intervención, mediante pruebas para evaluar el nivel fonológico, semántico, sintáctico y pragmático del lenguaje. Resultados: En cuanto a la fonología se encontró que el total de los procesos fonológicos en la imitación pre-intervención fue de 56 y post de 44. Ya en la prueba de denominación, se observaron 50 procesos pre y 48 post. En los hallazgos psicolingüísticos se observó la evolución en las habilidades auditivo-vocales post-intervención fonoaudiológica. Comentarios finales: Se subrayó la necesidad de una evaluación amplia del lenguaje y de las habilidades psicolingüística en este caso. De acuerdo con la propuesta terapéutica utilizada, se observó evolución en los niveles fonológico, semántico, sintáctico y el pragmático de lenguaje, todavía estes se encuentran en retraso cuando se los relaciona con la edad cronológica del paciente.

Submacular hemorrhage secondary to congenital toxoplasmosis / Hemorragia submacular secundária à toxoplasmose congênita

We report the case of a patient with congenital toxoplasmosis and submacular hemorrhage caused by a neovascular membrane who underwent an intravitreal injection of C3F8 and bevacizumab, and had a good visual recovery.

Relatamos o caso de uma paciente com toxoplasmose congênita e hemorragia submacular por uma membrana neovascular submetida à injeção intravítrea de C3F8 e bevacizumabe, com boa recuperação visual.

Prevalence of congenital toxoplasmosis among a series of Turkish women / Prevalencia de toxoplasmosis congénita en una serie de mujeres en Turquía

Background: Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy causes congenital malformations. Pregnant women should be screened for this infection since it is preventable and treatable. Aim: To study the sero prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant women living in lzmir, Turkey. Material and Methods: A blood sample was obtained from 4651 women aged between 15 and 45years, during their first trimester of pregnancy. IgM and IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were measured using an ELISA assay. Among women with both IgG and IgM antibodies positive, an IgG avidity test was performed, using a VIDAS kit. Results: IgG antibodies were positive in 1871 (39.9%) participants. Of these, 48 (2.5%) also had positive IgM antibodies. In 41 ofthese 48 women, the IgG avidity test was performed and only one woman had a low avidity. This woman was treated with Spiramycin. Her offspring had an intrauterine growth retardation and oligohydramnios. A chorioretinitis was diagnosed in the offspring of other woman with both antibodies positive. Conclusions: In this series, the prevalence of congenital toxoplasmosis was low. However, women with positive antibodies against Toxoplasma Gondii should be further studied and followed during their pregnancy.

Antecedentes: La infección por Toxoplasma gondii durante el embarazo causa malformaciones congénitas. Se debe efectuar serologíapara esta infección en mujeres embarazadas ya que es prevenible y tratable. Objetivo: Estudiar la seroprevalencia de infección por Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres embarazadas que viven en Esmirna, Turquía. Material y Métodos: Se obtuvo una muestra de sangre en 4.651 mujeres cuyas edades fluctuaban entre 15 y 45, años, durante su primer trimestre de embarazo. Los anticuerpos IgM e IgG en contra de Toxoplasma gondii se midieron por ELISA. En mujeres que tenían anticuerpos IgG e IgM positivos, un ensayo de avidez de IgG se efectuó utilizando el kit VIDAS. Resultados: Los anticuerpos IgG fueron positivos en 1.871 participantes (39,9%). De estas, 48 (2,5%) también tenían anticuerpos IgM positivos. En 41 de estas 48 mujeres, se efectuó el test de avidez y sólo una tenía una baja avidez. Esta mujer se trató con espiramicina y su producto de concepción tuvo un retardo de crecimiento intrauterino y un oligohidroamnios. Una corioretinitis se diagnosticó en el producto de concepción de otra mujer con ambos anticuerpos positivos. Conclusiones: La seroprevalencia de toxoplasmosis congénita en esta serie de pacientes fue baja, sin embargo, las mujeres con anticuerpos positivos deben ser tratadas y seguidas.

Toxoplasma gondii antibody profile in HIV-1-infected and uninfected pregnant women and the impact on congenital toxoplasmosis diagnosis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

OBJECTIVE: Compare the anti-T. gondii IgG titer between HIV-1 infected and non HIV-1 infected pregnant women and report three cases of congenital toxoplasmosis resulting from reactivation of infection during pregnancy of HIV-1 infected women. METHODS: This study was conducted among 2,270 pregnant women with chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection (absence of IgM and presence of IgG), including 82 HIV-1 infected and 2,188 non-infected women. RESULTS: The average anti-T. gondii IgG titer was 127 for the 2,188 non-HIV-1 infected women, and 227 for the 82 HIV-1-infected women (p = 0,007). These results suggested that higher anti-T. gondii IgG titers in HIV-1-infected pregnant women may not be indicative of an elevated risk for fetal infection. In this study three cases of congenital toxoplasmosis that resulted from infection reactivation during pregnancy of HIV-1-infected women were manifested by fetal death, symptomatic infection, and infant without symptoms, respectively. In two of these women, a ten-fold increase in IgG levels above used cutoff was observed (2,320 UI/mL and 3,613 UI/mL, respectively). In the third pregnant women anti-T. gondii IgG titers during pregnancy did not rise despite the occurrence of congenital toxoplasmosis (204; 198; 172 UI/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Congenital toxoplasmosis resulting reactivation of infection during pregnancy in the studied group leads us to believe that it is a public health problem, especially in our population, in which seroprevalence of T. gondii infections is high. These findings also suggest that special attention is necessary during pregnancy, because the serologic diagnosis may not be indicative of toxoplasmosis reactivation.