Definition A grouping of findings caused by infection of the fetus with the organism Toxoplasma gondii. Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Fetal infection with toxoplasmosis results when a nonimmune pregnant mother is initially infected with toxoplasmosis. For the mother the disease is generally mild and may not be evident. Infection of the fetus, however, can cause severe problems. Infection early in pregnancy results in more severe problems than later infection.
Congenital toxoplasmosis is characterized by damage to the eyes, nervous system, skin, and ears.
The outcome depends on severity of the congenital toxoplasmosis. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are pregnant and have not received any prenatal care. Prevention Prospective or expectant mothers can be serologically tested to determine if they are at risk for toxoplasmosis . Meat should be cooked until well done and the hands should be washed after handling raw meat. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.