Pathogenesis of toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis

Abstract

The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is an important cause of ocular disease both in immunosuppressed and immunocompetent individuals. Non-ocular infections are not usually serious in otherwise healthy adults. In contrast, toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis is a progressive, recurring disease that can cause severe morbidity. Here, Fiona Roberts and Rima McLeod review the demography, pathology and clinical findings of this disease. They discuss mechanisms of retinal destruction and disease recurrences, and the local immunological response at this immune-privileged site.