Human toxoplasmosis: current advances in the field

Abstract

Purpose of review: Human toxoplasmosis remains a significant, yet often underrecognized, global health concern. This review highlights emerging advances in prevention and management, offering timely updates for clinicians and researchers.

Recent findings: Recent venison-associated outbreaks in the United States have emphasized the risk of ocular toxoplasmosis and severe disease in immune competent individuals and the need for heightened clinical suspicion. Updated guidelines for hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients now recommend systematic screening, qPCR monitoring, and prophylaxis to reduce mortality from Toxoplasma gondii reactivation. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic T. gondii infection may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, challenging the long-held assumption that chronic infection is protective against these complications. Although the potential association between chronic T. gondii infection and neuropsychiatric disorders remains debated, its public health relevance warrants further investigation.

Summary: Improved clinical awareness, applied preventive strategies, and expanded research are essential to mitigate the broader health impact of chronic T. gondii infection. Future well designed studies and rigorous analyses are critical to defining maternal-fetal risks and potential neuropsychiatric effects, providing the evidence needed to update clinical guidelines and inform public health policies.

Keywords: chronic infection; qPCR; transplantation; venison.