The definitive host of this obligate intracellular parasite is the cat, although birds and other mammals (intermediate hosts) can also become infected.
Toxoplasmosis is a major problem if first contracted during pregnancy. The Toxoplasma gondii it can reach, through the placenta, the fetus and cause damage to the nervous system and eyes or it can cause preterm birth or intrauterine death. For this reason, in the preconception period or as soon as possible from the beginning of pregnancy, it is therefore recommended to perform a blood test, called Toxo test, to evaluate the presence of specific antibodies for toxoplasmosis (IgG and IgM anti- Toxoplasma) and know your immune status against the parasite. If the future mother had already come into contact with the Toxoplasma gondii before pregnancy, however, it is not susceptible (since people who contract the disease are generally immune for the rest of their lives) and there are no risks to the fetus from subsequent infections. In Italy, it is estimated that 30-40% of women of childbearing age are already protected against toxoplasmosis.
In the event that the serology for toxoplasmosis provides a negative result (therefore the pregnant woman is not protected against toxoplasmosis) it is important to follow some hygienic precautions to reduce the risk of infection and to periodically undergo the Toxo test. Early diagnosis and treatment of pregnant women with antibiotics can prevent or reduce fetal harm.
contracted from man. The causative agent - the Toxoplasma gondii - invades the cytoplasm of cells and multiplies asexually inside them, leading to the production of oocysts. Only in the intestinal tract of the cat, on the other hand, does sexual reproduction occur: the oocysts produced are emitted with the faeces and remain infectious in the soil For me yes.
