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Review
. 2016 Oct;54(10):2448-54.
doi: 10.1128/JCM.00487-16. Epub 2016 May 4.

Laboratory Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis

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Review

Laboratory Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis

Christelle Pomares et al. J Clin Microbiol. 2016 Oct.

Abstract

Recent studies have demonstrated that screening and treatment for toxoplasmosis during gestation result in a decrease of vertical transmission and clinical sequelae. Early treatment was associated with improved outcomes. Thus, laboratory methods should aim for early identification of infants with congenital toxoplasmosis (CT). Diagnostic approaches should include, at least, detection of Toxoplasma IgG, IgM, and IgA and a comprehensive review of maternal history, including the gestational age at which the mother was infected and treatment. Here, we review laboratory methods for the diagnosis of CT, with emphasis on serological tools. A diagnostic algorithm that takes into account maternal history is presented.

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Figures

FIG 1
FIG 1
Congenital toxoplasmosis diagnostic algorithm for testing and monitoring infants according to whether maternal antenatal screening and treatment was performed (a) or not (b). Cases in gray and white represent data and/or action before and after birth, respectively.
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References

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