Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy

Abstract

Although toxoplasmosis is usually considered harmless for a nonpregnant woman, it is potentially harmful for a pregnant woman, especially in the first trimester. One of the main consequences of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women is vertical transmission to the fetus. Although pregnant women who acquire T. gondii infection usually remain asymptomatic, they can still transmit the infection to fetuses with serious consequences. Congenital toxoplasmosis can cause serious neurological or eye disease (leading to blindness), as well as cardiac and brain abnormalities. Prenatal care should include awareness about the prevention of toxoplasmosis and routine screening.