Toxoplasmosis

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Abstract
Summary Toxoplasma is unique among protozoa in its wide distribution and lack of host or tissue specificity. It is a successful parasite in so far as it rarely causes death of the host. The infection is frequently inapparent and this type of infection may be passed from mother to foetus with disastrous results. In domestic animals, it is a cause of serious economic losses, especially among lambs in this country and New Zealand. It may be associated with concomitant infections such as distemper in dogs and helminth infection in cats. In man lymphadenopathy is the commonest clinical manifestation; various affections of the eye and pneumonia also occur. The means of transmission in nature is still unknown apart from the congenital form. It is, however, regarded as a zoonosis and women should take special care where sick animals are concerned. They should be excluded from experimental work on toxoplasmosis. The reaction of the parasite to drugs is unlike that of most protozoa, but curative treatment is possible.

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