Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Present and Future Challenges: A Review
Published: 2019-09-07
Page: 154-163
Issue: 2019 - Volume 2 [Issue 2]
Nataala U. Shehu *
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Kumurya A. Sale
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria.
Kabiru Mohammed
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Mauhammad K. Garba
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Nura Bunza
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Ahmed M. Ganau
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Ashcroft O. Fumilayo
Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Recent findings shows that decrease of vertical transmission and clinical sequelae may be as result of screening and treatment for toxoplasmosis. Reduction of T. gondii infection is directly connected with early treatment. In this way, laboratory diagnostic techniques should direct for early identification of infants with congenital toxoplasmosis. Detecting the infection early and giving proper treatment immediately, may help reduce some of the severe health outcomes associated with the toxoplasmosis. Presently polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most commonly used and also the most accepted laboratory method employed for the diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis during gestation period. The gold standard for the diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis is the detection IgG antibody in the serum. In addition, in-depth epidemiological studies are needed to inform the design of regional strategies and to guide implementation of control programs involving both the medical and veterinary sectors.
Keywords: Congenital toxoplasmosis, T. gondii, polymerase chain reaction, zoonotic parasite.