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Australian Prescriber Vol. 25 No. 4 2002

Treatment of ocular toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis of the eye is caused by parasites which are spread by cats. One cat can spread millions of parasite eggs. Food can be contaminated by the eggs so it is important to wash all fruit and vegetables and avoid undercooked meat.

If a person eats contaminated food they become infected with the parasite. Usually the immune system keeps the infection in check, but serious complications such as eye infections can develop. An infection in pregnancy can kill or injure an unborn child. Pregnant women should therefore avoid cat litter.