Diseases Caused by and Behaviors Associated with <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> Infection

• 发表在: Pathogens
• Main Authors: Ginger K. H. Akins, João M. Furtado, Justine R. Smith
• 格式: 文件
• 语言: 英语
• 出版: MDPI AG 2024-11-01
• 主题: <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i>; ocular toxoplasmosis; cerebral toxoplasmosis; congenital toxoplasmosis; personality; risky behavior
• 在线阅读: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/13/11/968

<i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> is an Apicomplexan parasite that is estimated to infect at least one-third of the global human population. <i>T. gondii</i> infection may be transmitted horizontally or vertically. The main risk factors for transmission to humans are related to diet, especially the consumption of undercooked meat, along with soil contact. In immunocompetent persons, the acute infection may go undetected as it typically produces minor, non-specific symptoms that are self-limited. After infection is established, recurrent retinochoroiditis is the most common clinical disease. In contrast, severe systemic or cerebral toxoplasmosis may be life-threatening for immunocompromised individuals. Furthermore, congenital toxoplasmosis acquired in utero may have devastating consequences if not recognized and promptly treated. A growing body of research has identified associations between latent <i>T. gondii</i> infection, and personality traits and risk-taking behaviors. Other studies have documented associations between latent infection and psychiatric conditions that include schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder. With no current treatment regimens being curative of <i>T. gondii</i> infection, effective prevention measures at both the public health and individual levels are vitally important.