Características de las lesiones retinianas en pacientes con diagnóstico de Toxoplasmosis ocular que acuden a un centro de referencia en oftalmología en Paraguay

Introducción: La toxoplasmosis es una enfermedad parasitaria, en América Latina la prevalencia es relativamente alta, se sabe que la enfermedad no solo es la causa más frecuente de uveítis posterior, sino también la causa principal de la uveítis en sí misma. En Paraguay no se dispone de datos epidemiológicos publicados sobre la misma. Objetivo: Determinar las características de las lesiones retinianas en pacientes con diagnóstico de Toxoplasmosis ocular. Metodología: El presente estudio es observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, temporalmente retrospectivo, con muestreo no probabilístico de casos consecutivos. Se enfocó en pacientes con diagnóstico de Toxoplasmosis que acudieron al servicio de Oftalmología del Hospital de Clínicas, durante el periodo de junio de 2020 a febrero 2022. Resultados: Se observó un 54,3 % de mujeres, una media de 30,62 +/- 12,96 años y un 62,8 % de procedencia urbana. El 88,3 % de los casos fueron unilaterales, la mitad de episodios primarios, el 93,6 % casos agudos, y el 97,9 % tuvo un mecanismo de trasmisión adquirido. La mayoría se presentó como Panuveítis, las localizaciones más frecuentes de las lesiones retinocoroideas fueron el Polo posterior (extramacular) y la periferia. El principal abordaje terapéutico fue el tratamiento con Trimetoprim Sulfametoxazol y corticoides sistémicos, la duración del tratamiento fue de 6,51 +/- 1,52 semanas, y las principales complicaciones fueron la Vitritis residual y la Hipertensión ocular. Discusión: La toxoplasmosis ocular es una causa importante de morbilidad visual. Se hace fundamental la prevención de la infección por este parásito mediante medidas higiénico-sanitarias, así como el diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz de los pacientes infectados, de tal manera a disminuir las complicaciones asociadas a esta patología.

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease, in Latin America the prevalence is relatively high, it is known that the disease is not only the most frequent cause of posterior uveitis, but also the main cause of uveitis itself. In Paraguay there are no published epidemiological data on it. Objective: To determine the characteristics of retinal lesions in patients diagnosed with ocular Toxoplasmosis. Methods: This study is observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, temporally retrospective, with non-probabilistic sampling of consecutive cases. It focused on patients diagnosed with Toxoplasmosis who attended the Ophthalmology service of the Hospital de Clínicas, during the period from June 2020 to February 2022. Results: 54.3% of women were observed, an average of 30.62 +/ - 12.96 years old and 62.8% of urban origin. 88.3% of the cases were unilateral, half were primary episodes, 93.6% acute cases, and 97.9% had an acquired transmission mechanism. Most presented as panuveitis, the most frequent locations of retinochoroidal lesions were the posterior pole (extramacular) and the periphery. The main therapeutic approach was treatment with trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole and systemic corticosteroids, the duration of treatment was 6.51 +/- 1.52 weeks, and the main complications were residual vitritis and ocular hypertension. Discussion: Ocular toxoplasmosis is an important cause of visual morbidity. It is essential to prevent infection by this parasite through hygienic-sanitary measures, as well as early diagnosis and treatment of infected patients, in order to reduce the complications associated with this pathology.

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.

Toxoplasmosis ocular en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad con toxoplasmosis congénita / Ocular toxoplasmosis in infants 0 to 12 months of age with congenital toxoplasmosis

INTRODUCCIÓN: La toxoplasmosis ocular (TO) es una retinocoroiditis que evoluciona con varios episodios de inflamación y puede presentarse, tanto en la forma congénita o adquirida de la enfermedad, OBJETIVO: Describir la frecuencia y características clínicas de la TO en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses, hijos de madres con serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal. METODOLOGÍA: Estudio descriptivo transversal, ambispectivo. Ingresaron lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad, cuyas madres tenían serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal, remitidos al servicio de oftalmología pediátrica para evaluación. Se recogieron variables demográficas, serología materna y de los lactantes, y los resultados del examen oftalmológico. Los datos fueron analizados en SPSS-v21. RESULTADOS: El 46,4% de 125 lactantes tenían TO, de ellos, 67,2% era de sexo femenino (p = 0,04), la mediana de edad fue de 6 meses, el 41% tenía IgG e IgM positiva. Las lesiones fueron bilaterales en 82,8%, central en 86,2%, e inactivas en 81%. La retinocoroiditis se acompañó de estrabismo en 41%. CONCLUSIONES: La frecuencia de TO en esta población de lactantes con toxoplasmosis congénita, fue elevada. Más de 80% de las lesiones oculares eran inactivas, de localización central y compromiso bilateral.

BACKGROUND: Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is a retinochoroiditis that evolves with several episodes of inflammation and can occur both in the congenital or acquired form of the disease, AIM: To describe the frequency and clinical characteristics of OT in infants aged 0 to 12 months, children of mothers with positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive, ambispective study. RESULTS: Infants from 0 to 12 months of age, whose mothers had positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period, referred to the pediatric ophthalmology service for evaluation, were admitted. Demographic variables, maternal and infant serology and the results of the ophthalmological examination were collected. Data were analyzed in SPSS v21 RESULTS: 46.4% of 125 infants had OT, of them 67.2% were female, (p = 0.04) the median age was 6 months, 41% had IgG and IgM positive. The lesions were bilateral in 82.8%, central in 86.2%, and inactive in 81%. Retinochoroiditis was accompanied by strabismus in 41%. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of OT in this population of infants with congenital toxoplasmosis was high. more than 80% of the eye lesions were inactive, centrally located and bilaterally involved.

Causes and characteristics of uveitis cases at a reference university hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Causas e características das uveítes em hospital universitário de referência no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of uveitis cases treated at University Hospital Clementino Fraga Filho and to identify the presentation pattern of intraocular inflammation on the basis of clinical, anatomical, etiological, and demographic criteria. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using data from the medical records of 408 patients with active disease who attended the ophthalmology service between March and October 2018. Age, sex, visual acuity at the time of diagnosis, anatomical and etiological diagnoses, the clinical aspect, and the main symptoms reported during anamnesis were described. Results: Of the 408 patients in the study, 52% were male and 48% were female. The patients' mean age was 42 years, and most (84%) were between 19 and 64 years old. Anterior uveitis was observed in 37.75% of the patients; posterior uveitis, in 49.75%; panuveitis, in 4.66%; and intermediate uveitis, in 3.43%. Only 18 patients (4.41%) presented with scleritis. Of the 390 patients with anatomical classifications, 76% had known etiologies, with the most prevalent diagnoses being toxoplasmosis (35.4%), followed by juvenile idiopathic arthritis (6.4%), ankylosing spondylitis (5.9%), and syphilis (4.9%). Infectious uveitis corresponded to 49.7% of the patients, while 26.6% of the cases were of noninfectious origin. Anterior uveitis had the highest number of cases classified as idiopathic (49.4%). In the cases of posterior uveitis, the etiology was established 94% of the time. The most frequent symptoms were ocular pain (71.8%) and blurring vision (56.8%). Conclusions: The present study confirmed the historical importance of infectious uveitis in our population, especially ocular toxoplasmosis. Uveitis appears to have no predilection for sex but mainly affects young people of working age, thus generating social and economic consequences. Despite the evolution of diagnostic methods, idiopathic uveitis remains one of the major etiologies. Epidemiological studies point to different presentation patterns of uveitis in different populations, but these may reflect the distinct characteristics of each institution.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o perfil epidemiológico das uveítes atendidas no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho - UFRJ. Identificando o padrão de apresentação da inflamação intraocular a partir de critérios clínicos, anatômicos, etiológicos e demográficos. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, com base em prontuários de 408 pacientes com doença ativa, atendidos no serviço de oftalmologia no período de março a outubro de 2018. Foram descritos a idade, sexo, acuidade visual no momento do diagnóstico, diagnóstico anatômico e etiológico, aspecto clínico, além dos principais sintomas relatados durante a anamnese. Resultados: Dos 408 pacientes do estudo, 52% eram do sexo masculino e 48% do feminino. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 42 anos, a maioria (84%) entre 19 e 64 anos. Uveíte anterior foi observada em 37,75% dos pacientes, uveíte posterior em 49,75%, panuveíte em 4,66% e uveíte intermediária em 3,43%; apenas 18 pacientes (4,41%) apresentaram diagnóstico de esclerite. Dos 390 pacientes com classificação anatômica, a etiologia foi determinada em 76% deles, com os diagnósticos mais prevalentes sendo Toxoplasmose (35,4%), artrite idiopática juvenil (6,4%), espondilite anquilosante (5,9%) e sífilis (4,9%). ) A uveíte infecciosa correspondeu a 49,7% desses pacientes, enquanto 26,6% eram de origem não infecciosa. A uveíte anterior teve o maior número de casos classificados como idiopáticos (49,4%), enquanto a uveíte posterior teve a etiologia estabelecida em 94% das vezes. Os sintomas mais frequentes foram dor ocular (71,8%) e visão embaçada (56,8%). Conclusões: O presente estudo confirmou a importância histórica da uveíte infecciosa em nossa população, principalmente a toxoplasmose ocular. As uveítes parecem não ter predileção por sexo, mas afetam principalmente jovens em idade ativa, gerando consequências sociais e econômicas. Apesar da evolução nos métodos diagnósticos, a uveíte idiopática continua sendo uma das principais causas. Estudos epidemiológicos apontam para diferentes padrões de uveíte nas populações, estes podem refletir características particulares de cada instituição.

Clinical observation of dexamethasone sustained release intraocular implantation combined with vitrectomy in pediatric ocular toxocariasis / 中华眼底病杂志

Objective:To observe the efficacy of parsplana vitrectomy (PPV) combined with 0.7 mg dexamethasone sustained-release Ozurdex intravitreal implantation in the treatment of children with ocular toxocariasis (OT).Methods:A retrospective clinical study. Fifty-three pediatric patients (53 eyes) diagnosed with OT and underwent PPV in Beijing Tongren Eye Center of Beijing Tongren hospital from March 2015 to December 2021 were included. There were 30 males and 23 females, with an average age of 7.07±3.45 (4-14) years; all were unilateral. Color Doppler imaging, fundus color photography, optical coherence tomography examinations were performed for patients who can cooperated with the examiners. Forty-three eyes were examined by best corrected visual acuity (BCVA); 47 eyes were examined by intraocular pressure; 29 eyes were examined by ultrasound biomicroscopy. According to the location of granuloma, OT was divided into posterior pole granulomatous type (posterior type), peripheral granulomatous type (peripheral type), and chronic endophthalmitis type. According to whether Ozurdex was implanted into the vitreous cavity after PPV, the children were divided into the oral glucocorticoid group after PPV (group A) and the PPV combined with vitreous cavity implantation of Ozurdex group (group B), 37 cases with 37 eyes and 16 cases with 16 eyes, respectively. There was no significant difference in age ( t=0.432), sex composition ratio ( χ2=0.117), BCVA ( χ2=0.239), and clinical type ( χ2=0.312) between the two groups ( P>0.05). The follow-up time after surgery was ≥5 months. The intraocular pressure at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery, the changes of BCVA and the occurrence of complications such as concurrent cataract and epimacular membrane were observed at the last follow-up, and the incidence of obesity in the children during the follow-up period was recorded. The measurement data between groups was compared by independent sample t test; the enumeration data was compared by χ2 test. Results:One month after the operation, the intraocular pressure of group A and group B were 15.17±6.21 and 25.28±10.38 mm Hg (1 mm Hg=0.133 kPa) respectively; the intraocular pressure of group B was significantly higher than that of group A, the difference was statistically significant ( t=0.141, P=0.043). At the last follow-up, there was no significant difference in the percentage of visual acuity improvement between the two groups ( χ2=0.315, P=0.053); there was no significant difference in the incidence of concurrent cataract and epimacular membrane ( χ2=0.621, P >0.05). Among the 37 cases in group A, 32 cases (86.5%, 32/37) developed obesity symptoms during the follow-up period. Conclusion:PPV combined with intravitreal implantation of Ozurdex and oral glucocorticoid after PPV can effectively improve the visual acuity of the affected eye; the incidence of complications is similar, however, the incidence of obesity after oral glucocorticoid is higher.

Toxoplasmosis ocular activa: consideraciones actuales sobre el tratamiento / Active ocular toxoplasmosis: current management considerations

RESUMEN Introducción: la toxoplasmosis ocular constituye la principal causa de uveítis posterior en el mundo; representa un trastorno recurrente con fatales consecuencias para la visión. Objetivo: exponer las diferentes alternativas actuales de tratamiento en la toxoplasmosis ocular Métodos: se llevó a cabo una búsqueda bibliográfica con el empleo de literatura nacional e internacional, en formato electrónico e impreso en el buscador de acceso libre Google académico y las bases de datos de Medline/Pubmed y Scielo. Desarrollo: en la actualidad aún no existe un consenso en cuanto a la mejor pauta de tratamiento, por lo que el objetivo de esta revisión es exponer las diferentes alternativas según la bibliografía consultada nacional e internacional. Sus indicaciones están determinadas por las condiciones clínicas del paciente: la edad pediátrica, el embarazo, el estado inmune del individuo enfermo, la intensidad del cuadro inflamatorio ocular y el número de recurrencias. Las opciones terapéuticas de modo general se realizan con inhibidores de dihidrofolato, sulfonamidas y esteroides. Conclusiones: la finalidad del tratamiento está enfocada en disminuir la replicación del parásito durante la etapa activa y minimizar el daño retinal, fundamentalmente en las lesiones que afecten la mácula. Por lo que resulta de interés el conocimiento de las distintas alternativas, a fin de lograr un buen resultado visual del paciente afecto por toxoplasmosis ocular y evitar la discapacidad visual o ceguera por esta parasitosis.

ABSTRACT Introduction: ocular toxoplasmosis is the leading cause of posterior uveitis in the world; it represents a recurrent disorder with fatal consequences for vision. Objective: to present the different current treatment alternatives in ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: a bibliographic search was carried out using national and international medical literature, in electronic and printed format in the open access search engine Google Scholar and the Medline/Pubmed and SciELO databases. Development: at present there is still no consensus as to the best treatment guideline, therefore the aim of this review is to present the different alternatives according to the national and international medical literature consulted. Its indications are determined by the clinical conditions of the patient: pediatric age, pregnancy, the immune status of the patient, the intensity of the ocular inflammatory condition and the number of recurrences. The therapeutic options are generally carried out with dihydrofolate inhibitors, sulfonamides and steroids. Conclusions: the purpose of treatment is focused on reducing parasite replication during the active stage and minimizing retinal damage, mainly in lesions affecting the macula. Therefore, it is of interest to know the different alternatives in order to achieve a good visual outcome in patients affected by ocular toxoplasmosis and avoid visual disability or blindness due to this parasitic disease.

Retinocoroiditis toxoplásmica y la evolución del resultado visual en pacientes inmunocompetentes / Toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis and the evolution of visual results in immunocompetent patients

Objetivo: Determinar la evolución del resultado visual en pacientes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo longitudinal en 101 pacientes inmunocompetentes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa, atendidos en la consulta de Uveítis del Hospital General Docente "Abel Santamaría", desde enero de 2012 a diciembre de 2018. Se evaluaron las variables localización de la lesión, tamaño, número, episodio, grado de inflamación, complicaciones, recurrencia postratamiento y mejor agudeza visual corregida. Se analizaron los resultados utilizando frecuencias absolutas y relativas, la asociación estadística chi cuadrado, las pruebas U Mann-Whitney o Kruskall Wallis, Friedman y de rangos con signos de Wilcoxon. Resultados: Según la localización de la lesión, los resultados visuales inferiores se presentaron en los pacientes con lesiones en zona I y los mejores se obtuvieron cuando hubo afectación en zona III. Se mostró una mejor evolución del resultado visual en los que tuvieron lesiones menores o iguales a un diámetro papilar. Existió diferencia estadística entre los diferentes grados de gravedad de la inflamación, con tendencia al incremento de la mejor agudeza visual corregida en el tiempo, después del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Durante la evolución de los pacientes inmunocompetentes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa se logra mejoría de la visión(AU)

Objective: Determine the evolution of visual results in patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: An observational longitudinal prospective study was conducted of 101 immunocompetent patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis attending the Uveitis Service at Abel Santamaría General University Hospital from January 2012 to December 2018. The variables evaluated were injury location, size, number, episode, degree of inflammation, complications, post-treatment recurrence and best corrected visual acuity. Results were analyzed with absolute and relative frequencies, chi-square statistical association, the Mann-Whitney U or Kruskall Wallis tests, the Friedman test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: According to injury location, the lowest visual results were obtained in patients with zone I lesions, whereas the best results corresponded to zone III lesions. A better visual result evolution was achieved in patients with lesions smaller than or equal to a papillary diameter. A statistical difference was found between the various degrees of inflammation severity, with a tendency to an increase in best corrected visual acuity with the passing of time after treatment. Conclusions: Visual improvement is achieved during the evolution of immunocompetent patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis(AU)

Uncommon progression of toxoplasmic papillitis: patient perception and case report / Papilite por toxoplasmose ocular com evolução incomum: percepção do paciente e relato de caso

ABSTRACT Ocular toxoplasmosis frequently presents as necrotizing retinochoroiditis and, less often, as peripapillary chorioretinitis and/or papillitis. The progression from papillitis to peripapillary retinochoroiditis has been rarely described. We report the case of a 52-year-old patient living in southern Brazil, who developed papillitis in the right eye and was treated with systemic corticosteroids (prednisone 0.6 mg/kg/day and pulse therapy with methylprednisolone 15 mg/kg/day, for 3 days). After 14 days, the patient developed peripapillary retinochoroiditis with vitritis and decreased visual acuity (20/60), and was immediately initiated on the classic oral treatment for toxoplasmosis, consisting of pyrimethamine (50 mg/day), sulfadiazine (4 g/day), folinic acid (15 mg every 3 days) and prednisone (0.6 mg/kg/day). The visual acuity of the right eye normalized after treatment (20/20), which lasted approximately 70 days, but scotomas were detected on visual field examination, especially in the lower nasal quadrant. Although two studies mentioned this presentation, our report emphasizes the possible manifestation of ocular toxoplasmosis as papillitis in the initial phase, with progression to peripapillary retinochoroiditis and permanent visual field defects, which justifies early treatment for toxoplasmosis in suspected cases, especially in endemic regions.

RESUMO A toxoplasmose ocular manifesta-se com maior frequência por um quadro de retinocoroidite necrotizante e, com menor frequência, por coriorretinite justapapilar e/ou papilite. A evolução de papilite para retinocoroidite justapapilar raramente foi descrita. Apresenta-se o relato de caso de uma paciente de 52 anos, habitante da Região Sul do Brasil, que iniciou com quadro de papilite em olho direito, sendo tratada com corticoides sistêmicos (prednisona 0,6/mg/kg ao dia e pulsoterapia com metilprednisolona 15mg/kg ao dia, por 3 dias), mas, após 14 dias, evoluiu para retinocoroidite justapapilar, com vitreíte e diminuição de acuidade visual (20/60), sendo imediatamente instituído o tratamento via oral clássico para toxoplasmose, com pirimetamina (50 mg ao dia), sulfadiazina (4 g ao dia) e ácido folínico (15 mg a cada 3 dias), e mantida a prednisona (0.6 mg/kg/dia). A acuidade visual do olho direito normalizou após o tratamento (20/20), que durou em torno de 70 dias, porém desenvolveu escotomas ao exame de campo visual, sobretudo de quadrante nasal inferior. Embora tenham sido encontrados dois trabalhos que mencionam essa forma de apresentação, o presente relato destaca-se por enfatizar a possibilidade de manifestação da toxoplasmose ocular por meio de papilite na fase inicial, que evolui com retinocoroidite justapapilar, causando defeito permanente de campo visual, justificando que se avalie a instituição de tratamento precoce para toxoplasmose dos casos suspeitos, sobretudo em região endêmica.

Toxoplasmosis ocular: aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos en edad pediátrica / Ocular Toxoplasmosis: clinical-epidemiological aspects in pediatric age

RESUMEN Introducción: a nivel mundial la toxoplasmosis ocular es la causa más frecuente de uveítis posterior, se detecta principalmente en niños y adultos jóvenes. Objetivo: determinar las características clínico-epidemiológicas de la toxoplasmosis ocular en pacientes de edad pediátrica de la provincia Pinar del Río, en el período 2012-2018. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional analítico transversal en 39 pacientes con toxoplasmosis ocular, atendidos en consulta de Uveítis del Hospital General Docente "Abel Santamaría" entre enero 2012 y diciembre de 2018. Se estudiaron las variables: edad, sexo, factores de riesgo, síntomas, hallazgos clínicos, complicaciones y agudeza visual. Se resumieron los datos con porcentajes y se estableció asociación estadística. Resultados: la enfermedad resultó más frecuente en pacientes de 15 a 18 años (46,2 %). Las condiciones de riesgo resultaron la mala calidad del agua de consumo (100 %), y la inadecuada manipulación los de alimentos (89,7 %). Existe asociación con un nivel de significancia del 10 % (p=0,066) entre síntomas y tipo de uveítis según localización anatómica. También se detectó asociación entre MAVC con localización anatómica (p=0,001), tamaño de la lesión (p=0,011) y en menor grado con clasificación anatómica (p=0,083). La presencia de cicatriz en área macular y vasculitis se presentó en un 33,3 % y 12,8 % respectivamente. Conclusiones: la presencia de malas condiciones higiénicas resultó frecuente. Las lesiones retinianas en el área macular contribuyeron a las complicaciones y secuelas reportadas. La prevención y el tratamiento oportuno, son las mejores maneras de disminuir la ceguera por toxoplasmosis en edad pediátrica.

ABSTRACT Introduction: ocular toxoplasmosis is the most frequent cause of posterior uveitis of known etiology in the world, mainly in children and young adults. Objective: to determine the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of ocular toxoplasmosis in pediatric patients in Pinar del Río province in the period 2012-2018. Methods: an analytical cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on 39 patients with ocular toxoplasmosis, who were treated at the Uveitis clinic of Abel Santamaría Cuadrado General Teaching Hospital between January 2012 and December 2018. The variables studied were: age, sex, risk factors, symptoms, clinical findings, complications and visual acuity. Results: the disease was more frequent in patients between 15 and 18 years old (46,2 %). Risk conditions were poor quality of drinking water (100 %), and inadequate food handling (89,7%). There is association with a significance level of 10% (p=0,066) between symptoms and type of uveitis according to anatomical location. There was also association between CVMA with anatomical location (p=0,001), extent of the lesion (p=0,011) and to a lesser extent with anatomical classification (p=0,083). The presence of scar in macular area and vasculitis was evident in 33,3 % and 12,8% respectively. Conclusions: the presence of poor hygienic conditions was frequent. Prevention and timely treatment are the best ways to reduce blindness due to toxoplasmosis in children.

Ultrasonographic characteristics of active ocular toxoplasmosis / Achados ultrassonográficos em toxoplasmose ocular ativa

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate ophthalmic ultrasonographic findings associated with active ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: Forty-seven eyes with active ocular toxoplasmosis in 47 patients were subjected to ocular ultrasonography using the transpalpebral technique (10-MHz transducer) and fundus photography. Patient medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Ocular ultrasonography revealed vitritis, posterior vitreous detachment, retinal wall thickening, and non-rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in 47 (100%), 36 [76.6%; partial in 12 (25.5%) and total in 23 (48.9%)], 12 (25.5%), and 5 eyes (10.6%). Thirty-five of the 36 eyes with posterior vitreous detachment (97.2%) exhibited posterior hyaloid thickening; moreover, adhesion to the exudative lesion and vitreoschisis were observed in 4 (11.1%) and 12 eyes (25.5%), respectively. Ultrasonography detected the location of the exudative focus in 12 eyes (25.5%). Conclusion: Ultrasonography is helpful for detecting important intraocular findings of acute ocular toxoplasmosis that can be hindered by medial opacity or posterior synechiae.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os achados da ultrassonografia na toxoplasmose ocular ativa. Métodos: Quarenta e sete olhos com toxoplasmose ocular ativa em 47 pacientes foram submetidos à ultrassonografia ocular pela técnica transpalpebral (transdutor de 10 MHz) e fundo de olho. Os prontuários médicos foram revistos retrospectivamente. Resultados: A ultrassonografia ocular revelou vitreíte, descolamento vítreo posterior, espessamento da parede da retina e descolamento de retina não regmatogênico em 47 (100%), 36 [76,6%; parcial em 12 (25,5%) e total em 23 (48,9%)], 12 (25,5%) e 5 olhos (10,6%). Trinta e cinco dos 36 olhos com descolamento vítreo posterior (97,2%) exibiram espessamento hialoide posterior; além disso, a adesão à lesão exsudativa e vitreosquise foi observada em 4 (11,1%) e 12 (25,5%), respectivamente. A ultrassonografia detectou a localização do foco exsudativo em 12 olhos (25,5%). Conclusão: A ultrassonografia é útil na detecção de importantes achados intra-oculares de toxoplasmose ocular aguda que podem ser prejudicados pela opacidade medial ou sinéquia posterior.

Eccentric fixation patterns, clinical findings, and reading speed in patients with bilateral toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis / Padrões de fixação excêntrica, achados clínicos e velocidade de leitura em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular bilateral por toxoplasmose

ABSTRACT Purpose: To study visual acuity, refractive errors, eccentric fixation, and reading performance in patients with toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis. Methods: Twenty-three participants with bilateral toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis and 4 with toxoplasmic macular retinocho­roiditis in their unique eye were evaluated. Participants reported their eye dominance, confirmed by the Portus and Miles test. Best corrected visual acuity, spherical equivalent refraction, magnification need, and reading speed were measured. Microperimetry (MAIA, Centervue - Padova, Italy) recorded the preferred retinal locus and fixation stability by means of the bivariate contour ellipse area. Fourteen eyes from 14 normally sighted subjects served as controls. Results: Mean ± SD best corrected visual acuity was better in the dominant eye than in the nondominant eye: 0.9 ± 0.2 (logMAR 0.5 to 1.4) vs. 1.2 ± 0.3 (logMAR 0.6 to 1.7) (p<0.0001, paired t-test). Spherical equivalent myopia of -4.00 or higher was present in 42% of the eyes. Microperimetry was performed in 42 eyes. Eccentric fixation was observed in all examined eyes. In 14 eyes (33%), the preferred retinal locus was placed (in the retina) superior temporal to the macular lesion, in 10 (24%) superior nasal, in 6 (14%) inferior temporal, and in 12 (28%) inferior nasal. There was no significant difference in the distribution of the preferred retinal locus position between dominant and nondominant eyes (p=0.85, Pearson test). There was no correlation between reading speed and the distance between the preferred retinal locus and the estimated original foveal position (r=-0.09; p=0.73), the bivariate contour ellipse area (r=-0.19; p=0.44), or best corrected visual acuity (r=0.024; p=0.92). Conclusions: Myopia is more prevalent in patients with toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis. Reading speed is not dependent on preferred retinal locus position, stability, or visual acuity. Nevertheless, documentation of fixation provides new data on the impact of visual impairment in these patients and may be useful for rehabilitation efforts.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar a acuidade visual, erros de refração, fixação excêntrica e desempenho de leitura em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose. Métodos: Vinte e três pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose bilateral e quatro com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose no seu único olho foram avaliados. Os participantes relataram sua dominância ocular, confirmada pelo teste de Portus e Miles. A acuidade visual melhor corrigida, refração em equivalente esférico, magnificação necessária e velocidade de leitura foram medidas. A microperimetria (MAIA, Centervue - Padova, Italy) registrou a estabilidade preferida do locus e da fixação da retina por meio da área da elipse de con­torno bivariada. Quatorze olhos de 14 pacientes com boa visão serviram como controles. Resultados: A média ± DP da acuidade visual melhor corrigida foi melhor no olho do­minante do que no não dominante: 0,9 ± 0,2 (logMAR 0,5 a 1,4) vs. 1,2 ± 0,3 (logMAR 0,6 a 1,7) (p<0,0001, teste t pareado). Miopia em equivalente esférico de -4,00 ou maior estava presente em 42% dos olhos. Microperimetria foi realizada em 42 olhos. Fixação excêntrica foi observada em todos os olhos examinados. Em 14 olhos (33%), o locus retiniano preferencial estava localizado, na retina, na região súpero-temporal à lesão macular, em 10 (24%) súpero-nasal, em 6 (14%) ínfero-temporal, e em 12 olhos (29%) ínfero-nasal. Não houve diferença significativa na distribuição da posição do locus retiniano preferencial entre olhos dominantes e não dominantes (p=0,85, teste de Pearson). Não houve correlação entre velocidade de leitura e distância entre o locus retiniano preferencial e a posição foveal original estimada (r=-0,09; p=0,73), a área bivariada de contorno elipsóide (r=-0,19; p=0,44) ou acuidade visual melhor corrigida (r=0,024; p=0,92). Conclusões: A miopia é mais prevalente em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose. A velocidade de leitura não é dependente da posição do locus retiniano preferencial, da estabilidade ou da acuidade visual. A documentação do padrão de fixação excêntrica, entretanto, oferece novos dados no impacto da deficiência visual nesses pacientes e pode ser útil em estratégias de reabilitação.

Surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with ocular toxoplasmosis / Resultados cirúrgicos do descolamento regmatogênico de retina associado à toxoplasmose ocular

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of surgical treatment of retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from patients who had undergone vitreoretinal surgery for retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis was conducted. The parameters that were analyzed include surgical procedures, anatomical outcomes, visual acuity, and postoperative complications. Results: This study included 22 patients, of which 13 were female (59.1%). The mean age was 28.5 years (SD ± 14.5, range 12-78 years) and the follow-up period varied from 1 to 163 months (mean 64 months). The mean baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 2.0 logMAR (SD ± 1.0). A total of 31 surgeries were performed, and the retina was reattached in 15 patients (68.2%) immediately after the first surgery and in 20 patients (90.9%) at a later point. The mean postoperative BCVA improved to 1.3 logMAR (SD ± 0.9) (p<0.05). Nineteen patients (86.4%) underwent cataract surgery with intraocular lens implant, and 12 patients (60.0%) underwent silicone oil removal. Five patients (22.7%) exhibited elevated intraocular pressure, and 1 patient (4.5%) developed hypotonia. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis resulted in considerable anatomical and functional improvement. Although PPV with silicone oil injection demonstrated the best outcomes, it is not reasonable to conclude that this is the best surgical approach given the small number of patients included in this study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados anatômicos e funcionais após o tratamento do descolamento de retina secundário à toxoplasmose ocular. Métodos: Análise retrospectiva de dados de um banco de dados validado, que incluiu registros de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia vitreorretiniana para descolamento de retina secundário a toxoplasmose ocular. Foram analisados procedimentos cirúrgicos, sucesso anatômico, acuidade visual e complicações pós-operatórias. Resultados: Foram avaliados 22 olhos de 22 pacientes. Treze eram do sexo feminino (59,1%) e a idade média era de 28,5 anos (DP ± 14,5, intervalo de 12 a 78 anos). O período de acompanhamento variou de 1 a 163 meses (média de 64 meses). A melhor acuidade visual corrigida (BCVA) foi 2,0 logMAR (SD ± 1,0). Em geral, entre retinopexia (RSB) e vitrectomia pars plana (PPV) utilizando injeção de óleo de gás ou de silicone (SO), realizaram-se 31 cirurgias. A retina foi considerada colada em 15 olhos (68,2%) na primeira cirurgia e em 20 olhos (90,9%) ao final do estudo. A BCVA pós-operatória média melhorou para 1,3 logMAR (SD ± 0,9) (p<0,05). Dezenove olhos (86,4%) foram submetidos à cirurgia de catarata com implante de lente intraocular e 12 olhos (60,0%) tiveram remoção de óleo de silicone. Cinco olhos (22,7%) desenvolveram pressão intraocu­lar elevada e 1 (4,5%) desenvolveu hipotonia. Conclusão: A abordagem cirúrgica no descolamento de retina secundária a toxoplasmose ocular permitiu importante melhora anatômica e funcional. Embora a PPV com injeção de óleo de silicone tenha demonstrado melhores resultados, não é viável afirmar que é a melhor técnica cirúrgica, devido ao pequeno número e às particularidades dos olhos tratados.

Toxoplasmosis ocular en Colombia: 10 años de aportes investigativos / Ocular toxoplasmosis in Colombia: 10 years of research contributions

Objetivo: Describir aportes investigativos en Toxoplasmosis ocular, realizados en Colombia. Método: Revisión narrativa de la literatura entre 2007 y 2017 en Toxoplasmosis Ocular (TO) en Colombia, sobre aspectos relacionados con el parásito y con el hospedero. Se incluyeron las revisiones publicadas, así como todos los artículos originales relacionados con diversos temas: epidemiológicos, inmunológicos, clínicos, diagnósticos y terapéuticos a través de PubMed usando los términos MeSH, con la siguiente sintaxis: "(((Colombia[Affiliation]) OR colombia[MeSHTerms]) OR south america[MeSH Terms]) AND "toxoplasmosis, ocular"[MeSH Terms] AND ("2007/01/01"[PDAT] : "2017/12/31"[PDAT]). Adicionalmente se realizaron búsquedas manuales. Resultados: En la búsqueda de la literatura con los términos MESH mencionados, se encontraron 36 artículos, distribuidos en el territorio con 10 en Colombia y 26 en el resto de Suramérica. Se encontraron diferencias importantes relacionadas con el parásito y con el hospedero, al comparar Colombia con el mundo. Las cepas en Colombia son más virulentas (Tipo I/III y atípicas). Se encontró una alta prevalencia de títulos positivos y desarrollo de TO en el país, presentándose el agua y los productos cárnicos como uno de los principales medios de contagio. Se determinó la importancia de péptidos que activan la respuesta inmune humoral en pacientes. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la severidad clínica (tamaño de las lesiones, grado de inflamación, compromiso macular, compromiso bilateral y recurrencias, siendo mayores para los pacientes colombianos) relacionada con la respuesta inflamatoria producida en el hospedero, asociada con una disminución de los niveles intraoculares de IFN-γ /IL-17 y un aumento de IL-6/Il-13. En los pacientes colombianos el citoquinoma ocular está relacionado con las características clínicas, presentando una respuestaTh 2 relacionada con un compromiso severo ocular. Conclusión: Los aportes investigativos que Colombia ha realizado en TO, han sido de importancia mundial, permitiendo conocer más acerca del tipo de parásito, la epidemiología, la presentación clínica y la respuesta inmune.

Purpose: To describe research contributions in ocular toxoplasmosis performed in Colombia. Method: We conducted a narrative review of the literature on ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) in Colombia between 2007 and 2017 on aspects related to the parasite and to the host. Published reviews were included, as well as all the original articles related to various topics: epidemiological, immunological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic through PubMed using the MeSH terms, with the following syntax: "(((Colombia [Affi liation]) OR colombia [MeSH Terms]) OR south america [MeSH Terms]) AND "toxoplasmosis, ocular" [MeSH Terms] AND ("2007/01/01" [PDAT]: "2017/12/31" [PDAT]). Hand searches were also conducted. Results: In the literature search with the MESH terms, 36 articles were found, distributed in the territory with 10 in Colombia and 26 in the rest of South America. Important diff erences were found in the relationship between the parasite and the host when comparing Colombia with the rest of the world. The strains in Colombia are more virulent (Type I / III and atypical) and we found a high prevalence of positive titers and development of OT in the country, with water and meat products as one of the main means of contagion. The importance of peptides that triggered the humoral immune response in patients was determined. Significant differences were found in the clinical severity (with Colombian patients experiencing a greater size of lesions, degree of infl ammation, macular involvement, bilateral involvement, and recurrences) related to the infl ammatory response produced in the host, associated with a decrease in intraocular levels of IFN-γ / IL-17 and an increase of IL-6 / Il-13. In Colombian patients, ocular cytokinome is related to clinical features, presenting a Th 2 response related to severe ocular involvement. Conclusion: Research contributions of OT in Colombia have been of global importance, allowing to know more about the type of parasite, the epidemiology, the clinical presentation, the immune response.

Acometimento visceral e ocular simultâneo em infecção por toxocara canis acompanhado de farmacodermia / Concurrent visceral and ocular involvementin toxocara canis infection and pharmacodermia

A toxocaríase humana é uma infecção parasitária de distribuição mundial causada pelos nematelmintos das espécies Toxocara canis e Toxocara cati, presentes no intestino do cão e do gato, respectivamente. Clinicamente, na maioria das vezes, é assintomática, porém pode apresentar-se de duas formas: visceral ou ocular. Visceralmente, gera uma síndrome hipereosinofílica crônica, acompanhada por leucocitose e hepatomegalia, podendo ocorrer algum grau de infiltrado pulmonar e febre. Na toxocaríase ocular, ocorre uveite intermediária ou posterior, podendo haver formação de granuloma, geralmente unilateral. O acometimento misto é raro, o que motivou este relato. Trata-se de paciente de 19 anos, sexo masculino, que apresentou como sintoma inicial perda da acuidade visual em olho esquerdo. Recebeu tratamento, sem melhora, com sulfametoxazol + trimetoprima e corticoide, fazendo farmacodermia. Evoluiu com diarreia, febre, dor abdominal e hepatoesplenomegalia. Descartadas infecções agudas por toxoplasmose, sífilis, vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), citomegalovirose e dengue; apresentou leucocitose com hipereosinofilia. Foi solicitada sorologia para toxocaríase, confirmando esta infecção. Após o tratamento, apresentou completa remissão dos sintomas. O objetivo aqui foi debater os fatores confundidores, diagnósticos diferenciais, necessidade de exames complementares específicos e conduta terapêutica, de acordo com o quadro clínico.(AU)

Human toxocariasis is a worldwide parasitic infection caused by ascarid nematodes species: Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, that are present in the intestines of dogs and cats, respectively. Although clinically, most human infections are asymptomatic, two syndromes of human toxocariasis are recognized: visceral and ocular. The visceral form is a hypereosinophilic syndrome accompanied by leukocytosis, hepatomegaly, some degree of pulmonary infiltrate and fever. In ocular toxacariasis there is intermediate or posterior uveitis, and there may be granuloma formation, usually unilateral. The simultaneous involvement of the two forms is rare, which is what, motivated this report. It is a 19-year-old male patient who initially presented loss of visual acuity in the left eye. He received treatment, without improvement, with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim and corticoid, causing a pharmacodermia. He developed diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain and hepatosplenomegaly. It was discarded acute infections by toxoplasmosis, syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cytomegalovirus and dengue. The patient also manifested leukocytosis with hypereosinophilia. Serological testing for toxacariasis was requested, diagnosing the infection. After treatment, he progressed with full symptoms remission. The aim of this study was to discuss confounding factors, differential diagnoses, the need for specific complementary exams and therapeutic management, according to the clinical aspects.(AU)

Toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente. Presentación de 3 casos y revisión de la literatura / RECURRENT OCULAR TOXOPLASMOSIS: REPORT OF 3 PATIENTS AND REVISION OF THE LITERATURE

La toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente es la forma más común de toxoplasmosis ocular. Las lesiones se localizan adyacentes a una cicatriz coriorretinal resultado de una infección previamente adquirida. La retinitis por toxoplasma provoca una respuesta inflamatoria variable, ocasionando vasculitis, vitreítis, coroiditis y uveítis anterior. El diagnóstico se realiza examinando el fondo de ojo, y su etiología debe considerarse cuando en un adulto joven inmunocompetente, se observa en la fundoscopía la presencia de una lesión retinal focal, asociada a una cicatriz coriorretinal. La retinografía permite documentar los hallazgos observados en el fondo de ojo. El examen serológico para identificar anticuerpos anti toxoplasma de clase IgM e IgG solo confirma la exposición al parásito pero no constituyen pruebas diagnósticas confirmatorias. Se presentan 3 casos de toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente en pacientes adultos cuyos diagnósticos se realizaron mediante el examen fundoscópico y la retinografía.

Recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis is the most common form of ocular toxoplasmosis. Lesions are located adjacent to a chorioretinal scar as a result of a previously acquired infection. Toxoplasma retinitis produces a variables inflammatory response, leading to vasculitis, vitreitis, choroiditis and anterior uveities. Diagnosis is performed by fundoscopy and its ethiology must be considered when fundoscopy shows the presence of a focal retinal lesion associated to a chorioretinal scar in a young immunocompetent adult. Retinography allows documenting findings from the fundoscopy. Serological examination to identify anti toxoplasma antibodies classes IgM and IgG only confirms exposure to the parasite but do not constitute confirmatory diagnostic evidence. We present 3 cases of recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis in adult patients that were diagnosis by fundoscopic examination and retinography

Ocular sarcoidosis masked by positive IgM for toxoplasmosis / Sarcoidose ocular mascarada por IgM positivo para toxoplasmose

ABSTRACT We report a case of ocular sarcoidosis with positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG serology for toxoplasmosis. The patient was a young female with red painful eyes, bilateral eyelid edema, and panuveitis with periphlebitis. In laboratory testing, she was IgM and IgG positive for toxoplasmosis and anergic in the tuberculin test. Topical treatment for anterior uveitis and oral antibiotics for toxoplasmosis were started, without improvement. Orbit tomography showed increased lacrimal glands bilaterally, and chest X-ray radiographic findings were consistent with pulmonary sarcoidosis, which supported the presumed ocular sarcoidosis diagnosis. The patient was treated with oral prednisone and methotrexate without antibiotics. She showed clinical and vision improvement without recurrences during the 1-year follow-up. Ocular sarcoidosis is an important differential diagnosis requiring careful anamnesis and ophthalmological examinations. Ancillary tests, such as X-ray radiography, tomography, and clinical and laboratory evaluations may help rule out other causes. Treatment mainly consists of corticosteroids and immunosuppression.

RESUMO Relatamos um caso de sarcoidose ocular com IgM e IgG positivos para toxoplasmose. Mulher jovem com quadro ocular bilateral de dor, vermelhidão, edema palpebral e panuveíte com periflebite. Os testes laboratoriais mostraram IgM e IgG positivos para toxoplasmose, teste tuberculínico anérgico. Realizou-se tratamento tópico da uveíte anterior e antibióticos orais para toxoplasmose, sem melhora. Tomografia de órbita mostrou aumento das glândulas lacrimais bilaterais e radiografia de tórax foi consistente com sarcoidose pulmonar, auxiliando no diagnóstico de sarcoidose ocular presumida. Iniciou-se prednisona e metotrexato orais, sem antibióticos, com melhora clínica e oftalmológica, sem recidivas em 1 ano de follow-up. Sarcoidose ocular é um importante diagnóstico diferencial que exige anamnese e exame oftalmológico cuidadosos. Exames complementares, como raio-X, tomografia computadorizada e avaliação clínica e laboratorial ajudam na avaliação e exclusão de outras causas. O tratamento consiste principalmente no uso de corticosteróide e imunossupressores.

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).

Ocular toxoplasmosis with positive polymerase chain reaction in peripheral blood ­ report of two cases, São Paulo State, Brazil / Toxoplasmose ocular com reação em cadeia da polimerase positiva em sangue periférico ­ relato de dois casos, estado de São Paulo, Brasil

Aims: To describe the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in peripheral blood and demonstrate its importance in the clinical follow-up of patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. Case description: Two immunocompetent patients were clinically diagnosed with acute ocular toxoplasmosis. The routine clinical evaluation consisted of fundus examination using binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography. The serological diagnosis was made by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and confirmed by enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA). The molecular diagnosis was made by PCR in peripheral blood using the B1 gene of Toxoplasma gondii as marker. The younger patient was male, had previous lesion in the right eye, complained of low visual acuity in the left eye and was under treatment. The older patient was male, had retinal detachment, and presented with sudden loss of acuity in the right eye. The fundus examination revealed chorioretinal scar in the left eye. IgG was reactive, IgM was non-reactive, and PCR was positive in the peripheral blood of both patients. New blood samples were collected for serological and molecular monitoring and PCR remained positive in both cases. Six weeks after treatment with oral sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine, the PCR yielded negative results. Conclusion: The results show that T. gondii antigens may be found in peripheral blood during ocular reactivations and that PCR may be a good tool for the follow-up of patients with ocular toxoplasmosis.

Objetivos: Descrever o uso da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) no sangue periférico e demonstrar sua importância no acompanhamento clínico de pacientes com toxoplasmose ocular. Descrição dos casos: Dois pacientes imunocompetentes foram clinicamente diagnosticados com toxoplasmose ocular aguda. Rotineiramente, a avaliação clínica foi feita por fundoscopia com o uso de oftalmoscópio binocular indireto, retinografia colorida, angiografia fluorescente e tomografia de coerência óptica espectral. A sorologia foi realizada por ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) e confirmada por ensaio imunoenzimático fluorescente ELFA (IgG, IgM). O diagnóstico molecular foi realizado por PCR em sangue periférico usando o gene B1 de Toxoplasma gondii como marcador. O paciente mais jovem era do sexo masculino, apresentava lesão prévia no olho direito, queixa de baixa acuidade visual no olho esquerdo e estava sob tratamento. O paciente mais velho era do sexo masculino, apresentava descolamento de retina e súbita diminuição de visão no olho direito. A fundoscopia revelou cicatriz coriorretiniana no olho esquerdo. Ambos os pacientes tinham IgG reagente, IgM não reagente e PCR positivo em sangue periférico. Novas amostras de sangue foram coletadas para monitoramento sorológico e molecular e a PCR permaneceu positiva em ambos os casos. Seis semanas após o início do tratamento com sulfadiazina e pirimetamina oral, os resultados do PCR tornaram-se negativos. Conclusões: Os resultados mostram que antígenos de T. gondii podem ser encontrados em sangue periférico durante as reativações oculares e que a PCR parece ser uma boa ferramenta para o acompanhamento de pacientes com toxoplasmose ocular.

Aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos de la toxoplasmosis en pacientes que consultan por problemas de visión / Clinical and epidemiological aspects of toxoplasmosis in patients with vision problems

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide disease; it can cause decreased vision or even blindness. The route of transmission in humans may vary according to the habits of the region; probably the ingestion of raw or undercooked meat is the main source of infection. Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in an eye clinic, the frequency of ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) and risk habits for acquiring the infection. Materials and Methods: Adult patients consulting in the Retina Department of the Teaching Hospital of the National University of Asuncion, Paraguay between August and September, 2014 were included. Prior informed consent, socio-demographic and epidemiological data related to T. gondii infection were obtained. In addition a blood sample for the determination of anti T. gondii IgG antibodies by the ELISA method was taken and ophthalmologic evaluation for the diagnosis of OT was made. Results: A total of 80 patients with mean ± SD age of 53 ± 20 years were studied, with slight predominance of women (55%). The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 84% (67/80) and OT was detected in 8.9% of the 67 seropositive persons. The habit of not washing vegetables with sodium hypochlorite and eat meat from wild animals was related to higher risk of infection in this population. Conclusion: It is important to conduct research at the population level to establish the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in our country. Information on prophylactic measures to prevent infection by T. gondii should be given to the population.

Introducción: La toxoplasmosis es una enfermedad de distribución mundial, que puede ocasionar disminución de la visión hasta ceguera. La vía de transmisión en el hombre puede variar de acuerdo a los hábitos de cada región, siendo probablemente la ingestión de carne cruda o mal cocida la principal vía de contagio. Objetivo: Determinar la seroprevalencia de toxoplasmosis en una clínica oftalmológica, la frecuencia de toxoplasmosis ocular (TO) y los hábitos de riesgo para adquirir la enfermedad. Pacientes y Métodos: Fueron incluidos 80 pacientes adultos que consultaron en el Departamento de Retina de la Cátedra de Oftalmología del Hospital de Clínicas entre agosto y septiembre de 2014. Previo consentimiento informado, se obtuvieron los datos socio-demográficos y epidemiológicos relacionados a la infección por Toxoplasma gondii. Además se tomó una muestra de sangre para la determinación de anticuerpos del tipo IgG anti T. gondii por el método de ELISA y se realizó la evaluación oftalmológica para el diagnóstico de TO. Resultados: La edad promedio ± DE fue de 53 ± 20 años, con leve predominio de mujeres (55%). La seroprevalencia de toxoplasmosis fue de 84% (67/80) y la TO se detectó en 8,9% de los 67 seropositivos. Se observó que el hábito de no lavar las verduras con hipoclorito de sodio y comer carne silvestre presentó mayor riesgo de contraer la infección en esta población. Conclusión: Es importante realizar trabajos de investigación a nivel poblacional para establecer la epidemiología de la toxoplasmosis en nuestro país. Se debe dar a conocer a la población las medidas de profilaxis para evitar la infección por T. gondii.

Detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in peripheral blood and aqueous humor of patients with Toxoplasmic active focal necrotizing retinochoroiditis using real-time PCR / Detecção de DNA do Toxoplasma gondii no sangue periférico e humor aquoso por PCR em tempo real

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the ability of real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for detectingToxoplasma gondii DNA in the peripheral blood and aqueous humor of patients with toxoplasmic active focal necrotizing retinochoroiditis. Methods: Fifty-five patients with infectious uveitis seen from 2009 to 2013 at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences of the Federal University of São Paulo were enrolled in this study. Forty-three patients had toxoplasmic active focal necrotizing retinochoroiditis, and the remaining 12 had non-toxoplasmic infectious uveitis and served as controls. qPCR analysis forT. gondii DNA was performed on the patients' peripheral blood and aqueous humor samples. Results: The qPCR was positive for T. gondii DNA in 37.21% (16/43) of the aqueous humor samples and 2.33% (1/43) of the peripheral blood samples; further, 16.27% (7/43) of the patients had positive results in both their blood and aqueous humor samples. Conclusion: qPCR was able to detect T. gondii DNA in patients with toxoplasmic active focal necrotizing retinochoroiditis in the blood as well as the aqueous humor and can help with the diagnosis of the disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o uso do PCR em tempo real (qPCR) na detecção do DNA do T. gondii no sangue periférico e no humor aquoso de pacientes com lesões de retinocoroidite focal, ativa por toxoplasmose. Métodos: Cinquenta e cinco pacientes com uveite infecciosa foram incluídos neste estudo. Os pacientes foram atendidos entre 2009 a 2013, no Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais da Universidade Federal de São Paulo. Quarenta e três pacientes tiveram o diagnóstico de lesões de retinocoroidite focal, ativa por toxoplasmose e, os outros 12 tiveram o diagnóstico de uveíte infecciosa não toxoplásmica e, por isso foram usados como grupo controle. A técnica de qPCR foi utilizada na detecção de DNA do T. gondii em amostras de sangue periférico e humor aquoso. Resultados: O qPCR foi positivo para o DNA do T. gondii em 37,21% (16/43) das amostras de humor aquoso, 2,33% (1/43) nas amostras de sangue periférico e, 16,27% (7/43) em ambas amostras simultaneamente. Conclusão: O qPCR foi capaz de detectar o DNA do T. gondii em pacientes com lesões de retinocoroidite focal, ativa por Toxoplasmose, no sangue bem como, no humor aquoso, podendo ajudar no diagnostico.