The best drugs and means for the treatment of toxoplasmosis in humans. The most effective pills for the prevention of parasites in the human body The cure for toxoplasmosis

The causative agents of this disease are microscopic protists, which, entering the human body, can cause disruption of almost all of its systems.

Anyone can get toxoplasmosis. There are several main ways of infection with this disease:

  1. Through pets - cats that are carriers of toxoplasma are especially dangerous;
  2. When eating raw or poorly fried meat and poultry eggs;
  3. Through mosquitoes, ticks and other blood-sucking insects;
  4. Through damaged skin at the site of wounds and cuts;
  5. In close contact with a sick person;
  6. With blood transfusion and transplantation of donor organs;
  7. Through pests - rats, mice, etc.;
  8. Through dirty hands.

Reaching the ultimate goal, Toxoplasma begins to multiply actively, causing great harm to the body.

Symptoms

In humans, it can occur in three different forms - acute, chronic or latent (unmanifested). The latent form of this disease usually occurs without symptoms.

The unmanifested period can last from several months to several years. In this case, the impetus for the development of the disease usually becomes a sharp decrease in immunity. It is usually caused by another disease, such as a viral or bacterial infection, cancer, or HIV.

The acute form of toxoplasmosis, as a rule, begins to develop less than a week after infection. This form the disease is characterized by a rapid course, in which the patient may experience serious damage to the lymphatic or cardiovascular systems, muscle tissue, eyes, central nervous system, including the brain.

This provokes the development of severe concomitant diseases, which are the main danger of toxoplasmosis. The following symptoms are characteristic of the acute form of toxoplasmosis:

  • Increase in body temperature;
  • an increase in the volume of lymph nodes (usually in the neck, less often in the groin, armpits and near the collarbone);
  • Severe pain in muscles and joints;
  • Non-intense headache that does not go away for a long time;
  • Constant chills, inability to warm up;
  • Sleep disturbance;
  • deterioration or complete absence appetite
  • memory problems;
  • visual impairment;
  • Weakness, fatigue;
  • A marked increase in the size of the liver;
  • The development of diseases of the respiratory system (bronchitis, pneumonia);
  • Damage to the organs of vision (inflammation of the retina or blood vessels of the eyes)
  • Inflammation of brain tissue;
  • Damage to the heart muscle.

The development of chronic toxoplasmosis usually begins in a patient three weeks after infection. This is the most common form of this disease. Chronic toxoplasmosis usually occurs with mild symptoms, namely:

  1. The temperature rise is not higher than 38;
  2. Frequent headaches;
  3. Enlarged lymph nodes;
  4. The development of brain diseases;
  5. depression, loss of interest in life;
  6. Memory losses;
  7. Insomnia;
  8. The appearance of phobias and obsessive thoughts;
  9. Decreased activity, constant weakness.

In addition, with chronic toxoplasmosis, patients are often diagnosed with vegetovascular dystonia. They may have frequent mood swings, irritability, intolerance to light or loud noises.

Also, this disease can affect the work of the endocrine system. In women, it causes disturbance menstrual cycle and in men impotence.

Treatment

Treatment of toxoplasmosis in adults is carried out with the use of antibiotics. Most often, to get rid of this disease, patients are prescribed drugs such as

  • Fansidar,
  • prenidazole,
  • Spiramycin.

Sulfadimetoksin is a modern drug that has a prolonged action and effectively fights infection. The dosage of this drug depends on the severity of the disease. For the treatment of severe acute form of toxoplasmosis, the patient is usually prescribed 2 g of the drug 1 time per day, after which the dose is reduced to 1 g.

With an initially mild course of the disease, the patient is recommended to take 1 g of medication per day, then reducing it to 0.5 g. It is important to remember that the use of Sulfadimethoxin is contraindicated in people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Another drug used to combat toxoplasmosis is Fansidar. It comes in the form of tablets that are recommended to be taken after a meal. There are two ways to treat toxoplasmosis with fansidar.

The first involves taking 1 tablet of this drug 2 times a week. In this case, the course of treatment will take quite a long time and will last at least 6 weeks. In the second method, it is recommended to drink the medicine for 5 days, and then take a break for a week. At this time, the patient is usually prescribed folic acid.

An adult can be treated for toxoplasmosis with Clarithromycin. To get rid of this disease, the patient should take 250 mg in the morning and evening.

It should be noted that Clarithromycin is not recommended for people with serious kidney problems, especially those diagnosed with kidney failure. In addition, this drug is not suitable for the treatment of toxoplasmosis complicated by brain damage.

In addition, Biseptol and Rovamycin are often used to combat toxoplasmosis. When taking these funds, the patient is recommended to take a short break in the cycle, during which he should drink folic acid preparations. It should be noted that Biseptol can be used to treat toxoplasmosis and in the form of drip therapy.

With severe weakness, decline in performance and deterioration of the immune system, patients are advised to take immunomodulating drugs.

These include Cycloferon, Likolid, Wobenzym, Vitamedin-M and Phlogenzym.

Treatment with folk remedies

There are also folk recipes treatment of toxoplasmosis, which can be effective in the uncomplicated chronic form of the disease. Very useful in this disease will be aspen bark, calamus root and eucalyptus leaves. They are poured with high-quality alcohol and defended in a dark place until a medicinal tincture is obtained.

Also very useful for the fight against toxoplasmosis will be decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs, such as calendula flowers and elecampane root. For this, 1 tbsp. a spoonful of raw materials must be poured with 1 cup of boiling water and set for 20 minutes.

Another popular folk remedy for toxoplasmosis is the dry grinding of bird cherry branches. To prepare a medicinal decoction of 100 g of bird cherry, pour 2 liters hot water and put on a small fire.

After 20-25 minutes, the broth should be removed from the heat and left to infuse for 3 hours. The finished product must be carefully filtered and taken 50 ml three times a day. The course of treatment is 1 month.

No less effective for the treatment of toxoplasmosis is propolis tincture. To do this, 100 g of raw materials should be poured with 500 ml of alcohol and left to infuse in a dark place for 3 days. When the medicine is ready, it will need to be taken half an hour before meals three times a day, dissolving 40 drops of the drug in a glass of warm water. The course of treatment lasts 7 days, then a week break.

These micro-organisms can attack any host tissue, but have a preference for those that supply the lymphatic, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems. They can also damage the eyes.

The patient himself, first of all, pays attention to:

  1. An increase in temperature and the appearance of a feeling of chills;
  2. persistent headache;
  3. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis);
  4. Fainting states;
  5. Reduced ability to work, the rapid appearance of a feeling of fatigue;
  6. Pain in the muscles, joints, spinal column.

There is a possibility of seizures and paralysis. The doctor, for his part, notes to the patient:

  1. An increase in the volume of the liver and spleen, the occurrence of painful sensations when they are felt;
  2. Inflammation of the lymph nodes, their swelling and soreness;
  3. Violation of reflex reactions;
  4. Manifestations that indicate problems in the functioning of the kidneys, heart muscle, gastrointestinal tract, nervous, respiratory and visual systems.

Symptoms of the chronic form of the disease (which lasts at least 3 weeks) include the following:

  1. chronic headache;
  2. Feeling weak and tired;
  3. Mood irritable, hysterical, very changeable;
  4. Problems with memory and thinking;
  5. Pain syndrome covering muscle and joint tissues;
  6. Subfebrile temperature.

The nonspecificity of signs in such a pathology practically excludes the possibility of making a diagnosis only based on clinical signs. Additional analyzes are required.

Sometimes you can observe the symptoms of toxoplasmosis of the eyes in humans:

  • reduced visual acuity;
  • drowsiness;
  • swelling of the lymph nodes in the parotid and submandibular regions.

In the case of children in whom the disease was acquired, everything passes in an acute form and without noticeable external signs. As in the case of adults, this will resemble the standard case of SARS.

With a congenital type of disease, the infant has an upset functionality of the nervous system;

  • decrease in intelligence;
  • memory disorder;
  • thinking problems;
  • lack of necessary reflex actions;
  • visual and auditory disorders.

But all these signs cannot be detected immediately after birth. They only reveal you months or even years later. In newborns, only a rash, jaundice, and an oversized liver and spleen may be observed - all this soon disappears.

Medical treatment

Treatment of human toxoplasmosis makes sense only when the acute phase of the disease passes. But the problem is that it is then that the probability of making a correct diagnosis is extremely small. All drugs that are usually prescribed during this period do not have any significant effect on the real causative agents of the disease.

The use of folk remedies

Treatment of human toxoplasmosis folk remedies effectively complements drug therapy. First of all, it is focused on strengthening the immune system, which can significantly improve the overall well-being of the patient.

If we talk about herbs, then the following recipes can bring the greatest benefit to the patient:

  1. Wormwood and bitter gourd rhizome (50 g each) mixed with yellow nine-leaf (100 g), buckthorn bark (120 g) and chamomile flowers (100 g). Grind all components (if dry - grind into powder) and mix thoroughly. Pour the resulting mixture (1 tablespoon) with boiling water (1 cup) and let it brew until the next morning (for this purpose, you can pour it into a thermos). Take the remedy in the morning on an empty stomach.
  2. Prepare tansy flowers (20 g), centaury (10 g), three-leaf watch (30 g). Mix all components and pour boiling water (600 ml). Close the container with the mixture tightly and insist in a warm place for 24 hours. Take in accordance with the following scheme:
    1. in the morning on an empty stomach - 100 ml;
    2. in the afternoon before lunch - 300 ml;
    3. at night (before going to bed) - 200 ml).
  3. Prepare a mixture of herbs with the same composition as in the first recipe, pour vodka (it is desirable that the future tincture be placed in a glass container). Allow the product to brew in a place where the sun's rays do not fall. After three days, strain the liquid. Take one tablespoon twice a day. It is preferable if the tincture is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:1 before taking.

The use of such funds should be agreed with the treating specialist.

Symptoms and treatment of toxoplasmosis in humans never go unnoticed. The course of drug therapy is long and difficult. And although the duration of one cycle of the use of etiotropic drugs is quite short (only about a week), but one such course is not enough, they require several (at least two or three). In addition, they must be separated by ten-day breaks.

Children are treated with the same drugs, but using a different dosage:

  • Pyrimethamine. It is required to consume 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight three times a day. General course does not exceed five days.
  • Sulfonamides. 0.1 g of the drug per kilogram of body weight, also three times a day. Take throughout the week.

Therapy with both drugs occurs in cycles, which are separated by ten-day pauses.

Interaction with HIV-infected patients requires special attention. Usually, a special scheme is supposed to be used here:

  1. Pyrimethamine (on the first day - 200 g);
  2. Concomitant drug:
    1. Clindamycin (6 times X 0.6 g per day);
    2. Calcium foliate (30g/day);
    3. Spiramycin (3 times X 3 million units - per day);
    4. Sulfadiazine (4 times X 1 g per day).

In order to prevent the disease, you can take:

  • Pyrimethamine - up to 50 mg / day;
  • Sulfadiazine - 3 times X 0.5 g (per day).

Treatment of chronic toxoplasmosis in humans can occur using not only "basic", but also additional means, for example:

  • Fansidar.

It was originally an antimalarial, but its active ingredients (sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine) are excellent for pacifying Toxoplasma. Fansidar is used according to the scheme established by the doctor. Sometimes the medicine is used only once a week for two months. However, with prolonged therapy with the use of this agent, it will be necessary to adjust the patient's condition with folic acid.

  • Rovamycin.

According to many doctors, this tool is not only effective, but also safe. It is prescribed in the form of tablets or intramuscular injections. The active ingredient is also spiramycin. Reception of Rovamycin can be prescribed even to women during pregnancy, since this medication does not affect the unborn child in any way. But at the same time, its use is prohibited during the lactation period.

This is usually associated with a general decrease in immunity, or pregnancy and leads to a more pronounced manifestation of symptoms.

Symptoms of the disease in the photo

Symptoms of toxoplasmosis in humans in the photo can be seen below, but all these cases are associated with acute and subacute forms of the disease (in some cases chronic with rare exacerbations).

When making a diagnosis, the doctor often comes to the conclusion that the patient was not engaged in strengthening his own immunity, including:

  • did not carry out the hardening procedure;
  • did not take sunbaths;
  • did not take walks in the fresh air.

Finally, as a preventive measure, it is very useful to lead a moderately active lifestyle.

Conclusion

How to cure toxoplasmosis in humans?

Treatment of the disease

Can toxoplasmosis be treated? different ways, according to various schemes. After confirming the diagnosis, you should immediately contact the doctors. It is the doctor who knows how to treat this disease. Timely treatment will avoid negative consequences. Toxoplasmosis in humans is a danger to his health, since with this ailment, the following occurs:

  • damage to muscles, eyes, nervous system;
  • enlargement of the liver, spleen, lymph nodes.

A large number of adults do not need special treatment, because a healthy immune system has the ability to cope with the infection on its own or muffle it for a certain period. It is almost impossible to get sick with this disease again. The fact is that protective antibodies appear in the body of people who have been ill.

During pregnancy, only taking medication to treat toxoplasmosis is able to prevent infection of the embryo, or at least reduce the risk of infection. Mandatory treatment of toxoplasmosis in people with weak immunity is recommended. In each case, only the doctor decides how to cure the disease, what drugs and medicines are needed for this.

A good addition would be the use of recipes traditional medicine. Treatment of toxoplasmosis exclusively with folk remedies will not bring positive results.

In the acute form of this disease, the doctor prescribes a course of chemotherapy and medication. The chronic form is cured quite difficult. In this situation, the doctor has the opportunity to translate the disease into a latent form. Treatment of chronic toxoplasmosis is carried out only in those periods when there is an exacerbation.

Medications

Vaccination against toxoplasmosis is not vital and important. The fact is that this disease is not included in the list of dangerous diseases from an epidemiological point of view. In terms of time, the treatment is quite long, from 1 to 12 months, it is carried out in certain courses. The duration depends on the following disease factors:

  • forms;
  • gravity;
  • expressiveness.

How to treat toxoplasmosis in the acute phase, the doctor determines. He prescribes drugs such as:

  • Delagil;
  • Fansidar.

At the same time, the doctor prescribes the intake of sulfa and tetracycline drugs. The following medications are prescribed:

  • Daraprim (Pyrimethamine) .;
  • Prednisolone;
  • Clindamycin;
  • Spiramycin.

These drugs are available in the form of tablets. The dosage is determined by the attending physician. They are also prescribed immunomodulatory and restorative therapy, as well as:

  • antihistamines such as Suprastin, Tavegil;
  • vitamins.

This rather insidious disease in some cases proceeds hidden.

However, during pregnancy it causes terrible complications:

  • convulsive seizures;
  • severe visual impairment.

Actually, therefore, it is desirable to know as much as possible about this disease. This is especially important in cases where animals such as dogs and cats live in the house. They are the source of human infection. Pets need to be properly cared for. It is important to visit the veterinarian with them so that they are given the necessary vaccine in a timely manner.

Eye damage in toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a serious disease that affects a huge number of vital organs. One of the most dangerous is toxoplasmosis of the eyes (ocular toxoplasmosis). Not only cats and other animals are at risk, but also children, teenagers, people aged 20-50 years. With this disease, acute visual impairment, partial or complete blindness are possible.

General information about the pathology

Toxoplasma gondii is the main carrier of the disease, which lives inside the cells of a living organism. There are three types of pathogens:

  • sporocyst (transferred to the environment with animal feces);
  • bradyzoid (is interstitial);
  • tachizoid (damages tissues and has a predisposition to reproduction).

Inflammation of the retina is dangerous because it is the main organ of vision.

Toxoplasma provokes inflammation of the reticulum of the eyes ( scientific name- retinitis). Both people with reduced immunity and normal ones suffer. At about 10-35 years old, there is a risk of a recurrence of the disease. With toxoplasmosis, cysts are affected, and a huge number of tachyzoites spread to healthy retinal tissue. In the future, retinitis can cause the development of uevitis (inflammation of the choroid of the eye). All patients who suffer from retinal toxoplasmosis are advised to consult a doctor and examine the fundus.

Clinical manifestations of toxoplasmosis of the eyes

Toxoplasmosis retinitis in humans has the following clinical manifestations:

  • Atrophic chorioretinal foci with pigmented edges are formed. Their character is two-sided. They are detected during children's complaints of poor vision.
  • Focal retinitis develops, which is characterized by the formation of an inflammatory focus, the appearance of an exudative reaction. This results in vasculitis.
  • The optic nerve becomes inflamed, often primary.
  • Immunocompromised patients are at risk of developing atypical lesions that are prone to further spread.

Other symptoms

During pregnancy, women's immunity drops, so they are most susceptible to infection.

Patient symptoms vary greatly. Toxoplasmosis is isolated congenital and acquired, so the diagnosis of pregnant women is important to prevent the development of the disease or the manifestation of relapses in the future. In the congenital form, damage to the central nervous system and the fundus occurs. If the infection with the virus occurred at a later date, then the child may develop glaucoma, chorioretinitis, uveitis.

With acquired toxoplasmosis of the eye, the following symptoms appear:

  • visual acuity is significantly reduced;
  • body temperature rises;
  • the size of the lymph nodes grows;
  • the liver becomes larger;
  • immunity is sharply reduced;
  • the patient becomes lethargic, drowsy, quickly tired.

Diagnostics

Often the symptoms of toxoplasmosis coincide with the symptoms of many other pathologies, so accurate and timely diagnosis is the first step to a speedy recovery. Studies are conducted to study changes in the eyeball and to establish the presence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii.

A patient's blood test reveals the presence of antibodies that neutralize Toxoplasma, and the formation of stable immunity.

To do this, analyze the following reactions:

  • Indirect immunofluorescence. It detects the presence of antibodies to the virus in the patient's blood. This happens as follows: blood serum is applied to glass with neutralized toxoplasma. The sample is then stained with a fluorescently labeled anti-human globulin.
  • Hemagglutination to detect antibodies that provoke agglutination of red blood cells. The results are made on the basis of interactions between Toxoplasma and red blood cells.
  • With the help of enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay, the antigen-antibody reaction is established. Enzyme-labeled human antibodies are attached to the virus, after which staining occurs. By the intensity of this process, conclusions can be drawn about the amount of antibodies in the patient's body. In order to increase the information content of the test in medical practice, fluid from the eyeball is used.

Treatment of the disease

There is no universal treatment for this disease. With toxoplasmosis, each case is individual, therefore, drug therapy is selected taking into account the symptoms and form of the disease. The peculiarity lies in the fact that drugs do not reduce the inflammatory response, and do not reduce the risk of relapse, but only prevent the emergence of new foci of infection. In case of complications, the doctor may prescribe steroids, except for people with low immunity.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis occurs differently in each case.

Among the common medicines for the treatment of toxoplasmosis of the eyes are used:

  • "Clindamycin" in combination with "Sulfadiazolin". The first drug is taken orally for 3 weeks, 0.3 grams 4 times a day, and the second - 4 weeks, 2 grams also 4 times a day.
  • "Daraprim" should be consumed at 0.5 grams per day. It is desirable to combine with folic acid at 0.4 grams per week. Treatment lasts an average of 1 month. This regimen is contraindicated in patients diagnosed with AIDS.
  • "Co-trimoxazole" and "Clindamycin". Take a tablet 2 times a day.
  • "Atovakvon" has practically no contraindications, therefore it is prescribed for patients with AIDS, pneumocystosis, toxoplasmosis uveitis. Scheme of administration - 0.75 grams 3 times a day.
  • In case of individual intolerance to many drugs, the doctor advises to be treated with Azithromycin. Use for 3 days no more than 0.5 grams per day.

Prevention and prognosis

The prognosis for people with normal immunity is quite good. Within a few months, ocular toxoplasmosis completely disappears. Clouding of the eye caused by this disease is completely resolved over time. The focus of inflammation is converted into a scar. The eyeball is considered completely curable when there are no signs of inflammation and uevitis. In the first 3 years, half of the patients who have had a retinitis lesion are at risk of relapses, while their number is 2.5 on average.

Preventive measures include hygiene (washing hands, food), careful heat treatment of food, especially meat, and reducing contact with pets. You need to be careful when you are pregnant, and constantly undergo tests for the presence of toxoplasmosis, and if necessary, consult a doctor so that he prescribes the correct treatment.

According to official WHO statistics, the number of people infected with Toxoplasma is about 1.5 billion. This figure is increasing every year. Depending on the country of residence, the percentage of infected can be from fifteen to ninety percent of the population.

The highest percentage of Toxoplasma infection is observed in France and Madagascar. Within the territory of Russian Federation the infection rate is about 45%.

The lowest percentage of occurrence of toxoplasmosis is observed in the United States and England.

Congenital forms of the infectious process include toxoplasmic lesions of the central nervous system, organs of vision, etc., resulting from transplacental infection of the fetus with toxoplasma from a sick mother.

In newborns, the pathology can proceed in the most acute form (about 35% of cases of congenital toxoplasmosis) with vivid clinical symptoms, or in a subclinical form. In the subclinical form, the disease transforms into a chronic one, accompanied by frequent relapses during puberty.

Signs of toxoplasmosis in humans can manifest themselves in different ways and directly depend on the quality of the patient's immune responses. In persons with sufficient immunity, the infection may occur in asymptomatic or erased forms.

In patients with various immunodeficiencies, the disease may be accompanied by the development of severe intoxication, dysfunction of the central nervous system, damage to the liver and spleen tissues, etc. In severe cases of pathology, death is possible.

Toxoplasma infection is especially dangerous for women who are carrying a child. The consequences of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy can be manifested by spontaneous abortions, habitual miscarriage, stillbirth, etc.

Consequences for the fetus (congenital toxoplasmosis) can be manifested by damage to the eyes, brain, hydrocephalus, convulsive syndromes, jaundice, edema, lag in physical and mental development, etc.

The causative agent of toxoplasmosis

The causative agent of toxoplasmosis is divided into three strains. The first strain most often causes toxoplasmosis in animals. Representatives of the second and third groups are found mainly in humans. At the same time, the third strain of Toxoplasma is often registered in patients with HIV.

In the future, the process of active reproduction of the infectious agent in the tissues begins with its further migration into the blood and lymph.

After introduction into the blood and lymphatic channels, Toxoplasma enters the tissues of the lymph nodes, liver, lungs, etc.

In chronic forms of the infectious process, Toxoplasma inside the cysts can remain viable for years. Most of the cysts are localized in the tissues of the brain, uterine tissues, skeletal muscles, eyes, etc.

The main host of Toxoplasma is the feline family (domestic cat, lynx, cougar, etc.). Intermediate - man, rodents, birds, artiodactyls, etc.

How is toxoplasmosis transmitted from person to person?

A person infected with toxoplasma does not pose an epidemic danger. The disease is not transmitted from a person.

An exception may be:

  • transfusion of infected blood;
  • organ transplantation from a sick person.

However, even in this case, the risk of infection is quite low.

The only mechanism of transmission of infection from a person is transplacental infection of the fetus from a pregnant woman.

Ways of infection with toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasma infection can occur when:

  • contact with cats (bites, scratches, saliva on damaged skin or mucous membranes);
  • violation of hygienic rules (the entry of toxoplasma oocysts on products after contact with animals);
  • the use of infected meat (the most common mechanism of infection is samples of raw minced meat for salt and spices) or milk;
  • work with infected animal raw materials (this mechanism of infection is relevant for workers in meat processing plants, slaughterhouses, etc.).

Infection of children often occurs when playing in a sandbox contaminated with the excrement of infected animals.

After suffering toxoplasmosis, a stable and intense immunity is formed. Cases of recurrence are rare. In patients with normal immunity, when infected with Toxoplasma, in most cases, a healthy carriage of Toxoplasma is formed.

Risk factors for infection

This pathology most often occurs in:

  • persons who eat meat that has undergone insufficient heat treatment, as well as people who taste raw meat when cooking;
  • employees of slaughterhouses, meat processing plants, sellers of meat products, cooks, veterinarians, laboratory employees working with materials containing toxoplasma;
  • people in contact with stray cats;
  • persons who do not observe personal hygiene.

The risk of infection from domestic cats increases if the animal does not undergo regular examinations and does not receive vaccinations from a veterinarian, is in contact with stray animals, and walks on the street. Also, infection of cats is possible due to feeding the animal with thermally unprocessed foods.

Why is toxoplasmosis dangerous?

For patients with normal immunity, toxoplasmosis rarely poses a serious danger. However, in isolated cases, with primary infection with Toxoplasma, the development of polymyositis, myocarditis, lymphadenopathy, chorioretinitis (inflammation of the vascular membranes and retina of the eyes) is possible.

Toxoplasmosis is most dangerous for:

  • newborns;
  • persons with reduced immunity;
  • patients with HIV;
  • persons receiving radiation, immunosuppressive, glucocorticoid and cytostatic therapy;
  • persons with diseases of the bone marrow;
  • patients with severe endocrine, cardiovascular, etc. pathologies;
  • individuals with malignant neoplasms.

Patients at risk may have severe damage to the nervous system, the development of toxoplasmic encephalitis, arachnoiditis, (toxoplasmosis of the brain), enterocolitis, myocarditis, infertility, interstitial pneumonia, salpingo-oophoritis, myositis, etc.

Also, the disease is dangerous for pregnant women, since the infection can cause abortion, the development of severe gestosis, congenital toxoplasmosis in the fetus, etc.

Prevention of toxoplasmosis

There is no vaccine for toxoplasmosis in humans. Preventive measures include:

  • conducting a timely examination for toxoplasma (antibodies to toxoplasma) of patients of childbearing age planning pregnancy and pregnant women;
  • compliance with the rules of personal hygiene by the patient;
  • proper care of domestic cats;
  • limiting contact with stray animals;
  • refusal to use thermally unprocessed meat and dairy products.

The pathogenesis of the development of toxoplasmosis

After the introduction of the pathogen into the lymph nodes, lymphadenitis develops. With the active spread of the pathogen with the blood, Toxoplasma penetrate into the tissues of the central nervous system, renal, hepatic, splenic, cardiac tissues, skeletal muscles, eyes, etc.

Active reproduction of the pathogen in the tissues is accompanied by the destruction of the affected tissues and the formation of necrotic foci surrounded by specific granulomas.

In response to the appearance of toxoplasma antigens, a delayed-type hypersensitivity immune reaction occurs, accompanied by the appearance of antibodies to toxoplasma.

When the fetus is infected, the toxoplasma focus forms in the placenta, and then the pathogen enters the fetal bloodstream.

Classification of toxoplasmosis

According to the mechanism of infection, acquired and congenital types of infection are distinguished.

According to the course of the infectious process, the diseases are divided into acute, chronic, latent, recurrent.

According to clinical manifestations, encephalitic (toxoplasmosis of the brain) and typhoid-like forms, toxoplasmic chorioretinitis, toxoplasmosis in pregnant women, toxoplasmosis in patients with normal immunity, toxoplasmosis in patients with HIV are distinguished.

Toxoplasmosis - symptoms in humans

The incubation period of toxoplasmosis can last from several days to several months. The shorter the incubation period of the infection, the more severe the course of the inflammatory process and the higher the risk of developing severe complications.

In patients with normal immunity, the disease is most often asymptomatic. In rare cases, it is possible to develop fever, lymphadenopathy, diarrhea, lymphocytosis, rash, symptoms of general intoxication, weakness, arthralgia and myalgia, damage to the optic nerve, etc.

In severe cases, the appearance of hepatolienal syndrome, the appearance of symptoms of myocarditis, pneumonia, signs of damage to the central nervous system (convulsions, encephalitis, mental disorders, etc.) may occur.

In chronic forms of infection, the disease can be manifested by weakness, neurosis, anxiety, insomnia, shortness of breath, arrhythmias, lymphadenopathy, infertility, unclear low-grade fever, signs of myocardial dystrophy on the ECG, pain in the heart, myalgia, arthralgia, etc.

Symptoms of toxoplasmosis in women can be manifested by menstrual irregularities, salpingo-oophoritis, endometritis, and a decrease in sexual desire.

Symptoms of toxoplasmosis in a child

The manifestation of infection in children and adults does not differ.

Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in humans

A blood test for toxoplasmosis includes:

  • general blood test (detection of leukopenia, neutropenia, relative lymphocytosis, monocytosis, normal ESR);
  • detection of antibodies to toxoplasma class G and M;
  • PCR with the detection of toxoplasmic DNA.

Deciphering the analysis for toxoplasmosis should be carried out exclusively by the attending physician. Self-interpretation of analyzes and self-prescription of medicines are unacceptable.

How to get tested for toxoplasmosis

A blood test is taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Do not smoke before the test. The day before, you should refrain from drinking alcohol.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis in humans

Treatment of toxoplasmosis with folk remedies is not carried out.

The treatment regimen for toxoplasmosis in adults and children with drugs is selected individually by the attending physician.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis in children and adults with normal immunity is most often not required. In chronic course, treatment of toxoplasmosis in adults can be carried out during pregnancy (taking prophylactic courses of spiramycin).

According to indications, pyrimethamine, antibiotics (,) and potassium folinate are used to eliminate the infection.

Of the macrolide drugs, and are most often used.

According to the indications, an antibacterial agent from the group - can be used.

Article prepared
infectious disease doctor Chernenko A.L.

Any prevention methods will be ineffective if you do not follow the rules of personal hygiene.

If an invasion has occurred or the child has negative symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor to provide timely medical care.

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Do I need to take tablets from worms for prophylactic purposes? On this issue, the opinions of experts differ. Some believe that it is enough to follow the rules of hygiene, and it is not worth prophylaxis with pills, since you can get infected the next day. Others believe that even if the test results are negative, it is necessary to carry out prophylaxis a couple of times a year, since a person is faced with daily large quantity surfaces and people that may be potentially contaminated. For these purposes, specially designed tablets for worms are less toxic to humans and suitable for prevention.

Do you need worm prevention?

There is no single answer to the question of whether prevention of infection from helminths is necessary.

In adults, this causes the development of chronic diseases that cannot be cured for years.

In young children, in addition to diseases, a lag in physical development. Given this circumstance, it is better to play it safe and take medication than risk your health.

In what cases is regular antihelminthic prophylaxis justified:

  • if you have pets or frequent contact with animals;
  • if children play in the sandbox, contact with the ground;
  • when a person's hobby is fishing, hunting;
  • after traveling to exotic countries.

List of tablets from all types of worms except trematodes.

Helminthiases provoked by worms from the genus of pinworms and whipworms are especially well amenable to treatment.

In special cases, with prolonged use, it is necessary to monitor laboratory blood counts, liver and kidney function. Control tests prove the effectiveness of the drug.

Tablets 100 mg 6 pcs. - 100 rubles

It inhibits helminths, destroys the structure of their eggs, which contributes to their inevitable death.

The duration of the course of treatment depends on the type of worms.

Tablets 100 mg 24 pcs. - 157 rubles.

3. Nemozol (Slovenia). Effective tablets from worms for adults with a wide spectrum of action.

The active substance albendazole disrupts the cellular metabolism of the intestinal tract of skin, tissue, intestinal helminths.

It has different forms of release: tablets, chewable tablets, suspension, which allows you to make a convenient choice for patients of all ages. Well tolerated. With appropriate dosages side effects are minimized.

Tablet 1 piece 400 mg - 210 rubles.

Suspension 100 mg / 5 ml, 20 ml - 180 r.

Preparations for nematodes

1. Piperazine (Russia). Inexpensive deworming pills paralyze the musculature of the worms without killing them. For this reason, it is non-toxic, as no degradation products are formed.

Excellent treatment for ascariasis. With the primary one-day course, the effectiveness reaches 95%, with a second one, about one hundred percent.

Enterobiasis requires longer treatment in several stages from one to three with seven-day breaks. According to indications, it can be prescribed to pregnant and lactating women.

The cost of tablets 500 mg 10 pieces - 20 rubles.

Despite the fact that Pirantel is one of the cheapest tablets for worms, they help to quickly get rid of ascaris, pinworms, whipworm and some other types of helminths.

A short course of admission, safety, affordable price distinguishes it from a number of similar medicines.

For children, the medicine is released in the form of a suspension, which is convenient if all family members undergo treatment for enterobiasis.

3. Dekaris (Hungary). Narrowly targeted one of the best tablets for worms for the treatment of ascariasis. The active substance levamisole causes paralysis of the muscles of the worms.

Additionally, it has an immunomodulatory effect.

In some cases, under strict medical supervision, use during pregnancy is allowed. Side effects are rare.

Tab. 1 piece 150 mg - 80 rubles, 2 pcs. 50 mg - 82 rubles.

4. Helmintox (France). An antihelminthic agent acts against both sexes of helminths that are sensitive to it. One of the most effective tablets for worms. Convenient treatment regimen - you can use the remedy at any time of the day, regardless of the meal.

To eliminate pinworms and roundworms, only a single application is required.

A suspension has been developed for children.

Tablets 250 mg, 3 pcs. - 70 rubles.

Prevention of worms with drugs

Parents should at least 2 times a year take a stool test for worm eggs with their child and check it for enterobiasis. If the baby, along with adults, visited exotic countries, it is imperative that after arrival you should seek the advice of a specialist to make sure that everything is in order with the child.

If the family has pets (cat, dog, ferret), they are regularly shown to the veterinarian and anthelmintic 3-4 times a year.

Of course, if the baby has become lethargic, whiny, has lost his appetite - this is a serious reason to contact a specialist, he will advise what and in what doses to give the child. With enterobiasis (pinworms), the crumbs are often worried about itching in the anus, as pinworms come out at night to lay eggs.

Since the infection occurs very quickly, treatment is given to all family members. Tablets are not prescribed for the treatment of young children; most anthelmintic drugs are available in the form of a suspension that has a pleasant taste. This medicine is easy to give to the baby. Some of the drugs are suitable for babies up to 2 years old.

Pirantel

It is an effective anthelmintic agent, available in the form of tablets and suspensions. It acts on adults and larvae, affecting the muscles of the worms and immobilizing them. Applies to:

  • ascariasis;
  • enterobiasis;
  • hookworm;
  • necatorosis.

It is used to treat children from 6 months of age. For treatment, the prescribed dose of the drug is taken once. The vial with the suspension must be shaken before taking the drug. After 2-3 weeks after treatment, tests are repeated and, if necessary, the child can be dewormed again by repeating the intake. Children older than 6 months are prescribed 5 milliliters of syrup for every 10 kilograms of weight.

A drug for the treatment of helminthiasis with a wide spectrum of action. It is used in the treatment of mixed helminthic invasions. Available in the form of tablets and suspensions. Effective in the treatment of:

  • ascariasis;
  • hookworm;
  • echinococcosis;
  • enterobiasis;
  • trichinosis;
  • trichuriasis.

It can be administered to children from 2 years of age. The dosage is determined by the doctor, according to indications, all family members are treated. A week after treatment, tests are prescribed to assess the effectiveness of treatment. If necessary, an anthelmintic agent is prescribed for repeated administration.

An antihelminthic drug used to get rid of roundworms and tapeworms is effective in case of mixed helminthic invasions. Applies in case:

A highly effective antihelminthic drug, available only in tablets, has a large amount adverse reactions, which are leveled by competent selection of the reception scheme. It is used to treat children over 3 years old, at this age it is no longer difficult to persuade a baby to take a pill.

Appointed for:

  • necatorosis;
  • toxoplasmosis;
  • strongyloidiasis;
  • ascariasis;
  • enterobiasis.

Decaris is similar in action to pyrantel, but the latter has fewer contraindications.

Remember: the use of antihelminthic drugs can cause dizziness, nausea and general weakness in the child; These are temporary phenomena that pass quickly.

Before you drink the medicine, you should not do an enema or follow any diet.

Why drugs are not widely used for the prevention of helminthiasis?

  • Infection can occur after the worm medication has worn off.
  • Preparations for the prevention of worms have their therapeutic effect due to their toxicity. It is so great that it kills or paralyzes the helminth, but it is also harmful to humans. The level of toxicity can do more harm than good. So in pregnant women who are in the first trimester, if cavity forms of helminths are detected, treatment is not carried out, it is transferred to more late deadline. This is because the drugs can harm the fetus. Folk remedies are no exception. The classic anthelmintic prescription with tansy is not used in children due to toxicity.
  • Once in the body, the tissue helminth passes through several organs and systems. For example, toxocar, getting into the gastrointestinal tract, damages its wall, and then it circulates in the blood, reaching the internal organs (liver, eyes, lungs, etc.). Anthelmintic drugs have different concentrations in different tissues of the body. Therefore, they will only affect those pathogens that are in a particular place. For example, by killing the pathogen in the blood, they will not affect those of its representatives that are in the digestive tract.
  • In humans, helminths can be in different forms (eggs, larvae, etc.). For each of these stages, certain drugs are most effective. Without knowing the state of the pathogen, it is possible to use a drug that is ineffective for this form.
  • There is no medical remedy that is effective against all types of helminths. Therefore, it is impossible to carry out universal prophylaxis in either children or adults.

Thus, the prevention of helminths with the use of drugs can be not only ineffective and poorly tolerated, but also much more harmful than the helminthiases themselves.

This is especially important if, after the prevention of a non-existent disease, it becomes necessary to treat the helminthiasis that has arisen later. In these cases, the toxic substance will be taken 2 or more times

Such drugs should be prescribed by a doctor in the presence of objective indications. Prevention and treatment of helminthiasis should be justified to prevent erroneous poisoning of the body with toxic substances.

Medicines for the prevention of worms in adults

Decaris is recommended to be taken with a small amount of water, and in no case should be consumed. alcoholic drinks during treatment or prophylaxis. Otherwise, the prevention of worms can become a significant problem: alcohol under the influence of levamisole will cause severe vomiting with stomach cramps.

Wormil

Wormil is also effective tool which is available in the form of tablets. It is actively used in the treatment of both adults and children. This drug is also a good prophylactic.

To date, the price of Vormil is slightly higher than the price of Decaris. There are also analogues that contain the same active substance, but have a different name:

  • Helmadol;
  • Nemozol.

Pirantel

Pirantel is one of the most famous prophylactic and anti-worm medicines. The active substance of the same name pyrantel easily paralyzes helminths different type, they are excreted naturally after a short period of time. But with this drug you should be more careful, it is not recommended for people with liver failure.

Doctors also prohibit the use of any other drugs at the same time as this drug, as this can lead to negative consequences for the body. The dosage should be determined according to the instructions, or as recommended by the doctor, taking into account the age and weight of the patient.

Vermox

On the basis of mebendazole, a number of other drugs for the prevention of helminths are produced, for example: Vermakar and Mebeks.

Albendazole

Carbendacym

Karbendatsim perfectly copes with worms in the intestines. Due to its active substance, the drug quickly paralyzes the helminth, losing the ability to stay in the intestines and leaves the body.

It is important to note that the active components of this drug are practically not absorbed by the body, thereby causing minimal harm to the human body.

  • prevention from infection with helminthiasis is recommended to be carried out twice a year;
  • All family members need to take medications. Including do not forget about pets - there are special medicines for them. Only complex prevention will help to get rid of worms as effectively as possible;
  • it is desirable to use not one, but two different drugs, the first one containing Levamisole, and the second - Albendazole or Medazol.

1 Symptoms of invasions

To check for the presence of helminthic invasions, it is not necessary to take tests in a hospital. Some symptoms may indicate an invasion:

  • persistent diarrhea or constipation;
  • pain in the abdomen or under the ribs on the right side;
  • flatulence;
  • nausea;
  • chronic fatigue, irritability;
  • anemia;
  • avitaminosis;
  • insomnia and nightmares;
  • low immunity, which is accompanied by systematic SARS.

It does not hurt to take a course of medication if:

  • there is regular contact with animals;
  • a person often comes into contact with the earth, is fond of hunting or fishing;
  • work is carried out in a close team;
  • regular visits to southern countries.

Staying in these conditions increases the risk of infection with helminths. Children should be regularly tested for helminthiasis and prevent invasions, since their immunity is weaker, and contact with contaminated surfaces is sometimes more active than in adults. So do not completely reject medications, but consult your doctor about which ones are right for you.

It is not worth deciding on your own which tablets for worms for prophylaxis in humans, since they are of a narrow and broad focus, they can only act against a specific type of helminths. Narrow spectrum drugs are usually more toxic and have a long list of contraindications. To choose good medicines for worms, contact a specialist.

The main measures for the prevention of helminthiasis:

  • wash hands after going to the toilet, before eating;

regularly wipe the child's toys with disinfectants, wash soft toys;

it is forbidden to give the baby raw eggs, fish. All dishes must undergo thorough heat treatment;

let's drink only purified water;

Wash your child's bedding once a week. If helminthiasis is diagnosed, then increase the frequency of treatment by three times. Additionally, boil and iron bed linen;

The ability of a child to communicate with animals is very important. Warn him that you can't kiss cats and dogs, you can only stroke them. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after playing with animals.

Worms are a common problem in young children. Use useful recommendations, regularly give them drugs for preventive purposes.

Take care of the health of your baby, carefully monitor his condition, and if you find alarming symptoms, visit the pediatrician.

Taking drugs for the prevention of helminths in humans helps to eliminate worms from the body if they begin to multiply. Indications for drug prophylaxis are:

  • regular contact with animals (at home, at work);
  • stay of children long time in the children's team (when the child visits sanatoriums, children's camps);
  • passion for hunting or fishing;
  • frequent contact with the ground (gardeners, farmers, summer residents are at risk);
  • regular visits to exotic countries (especially those in which the level of well-being is below average).

A doctor should prescribe anthelmintic drugs for prevention. Take funds for worms twice a year (most often it is spring and autumn, when the likelihood of infection is higher).

The doctor can choose a treatment regimen for helminthiasis individually for each patient only after a complete examination

Close contact of children with pets is always a reason for helminth prophylaxis both in the animal and in other family members.

Prevention of helminths is very important, because in last years cases of infection with worms of both adults and children have become significantly more frequent, which negatively affects the health of the population.

Helminthiases are considered a disease of "dirty hands"

To protect yourself and your children, it is important to learn how to wash your hands regularly before eating, after playing with pets, and after visiting the street. Regular wet cleaning and change of linen also play an important role in the prevention of helminthiasis.

Prevention includes many items, the main ones are the use of quality food and water, personal hygiene, as well as protection from insects.

Helminthiases and their prevention are one of the main issues of modern medicine, because the well-being of future generations depends on the health and standard of living of people.

Zoonotic protozoal disease belongs to the group of TORCH infections caused by the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which, in the case of a manifest course, is characterized by polymorphism clinical manifestations with a primary lesion of the nervous, lymphatic systems, eyes, skeletal muscles and myocardium.

The urgency of the problem of toxoplasmosis is due to the high susceptibility of a person to infection with toxoplasma, the significant spread of invasion among the world's population (20-30%), the belonging of the disease to the TORCH complex, the development of severe manifest forms in patients with immunosuppression, the inability to achieve sanitation of the macroorganism with the help of known today drugs (since they do not act on cysts - the main form of existence of toxoplasma in the human body), the limitations of modern methods of confirming the connection between the presence of toxoplasma in the human body and clinical manifestations. There are more than 20 methods of specific research in toxoplasmosis, but none of them fully satisfies the needs of medicine.

Tachyzoites are highly sensitive to thermal, physical and chemical agents.

Bradyzoites exist in the form of true cysts of a lanceolate shape (they have their own membrane, inside which several thousand bradyzoites are located), they can be found in any organ, but most often in skeletal muscles, liver, myocardium, CNS, causing a chronic course of infection. Cysts are resistant to various kinds of influences, including chemotherapy.

Sporozoites (oocysts) are oval in shape, are formed only in the cells of the intestinal mucosa of the feline, are excreted with feces to the outside. Oocysts are resistant to factors environment, while they are able to maintain viability and invasiveness for 1.5-2 years through sporulation, which occurs within 1-5 days after exit from the feline body. After that, the oocysts contain 2 sporocysts, each of them has 4 sporozoites.

The life cycle of the pathogen takes place with a change of two stages:

  • asexual (schizogony) - in the cells of various tissues of many intermediate hosts (mammals, birds, humans),
  • sexual (gametogony) - exclusively in the epithelium of the intestines of the main host (representatives of the cat family).

Toxoplasmosis is a ubiquitous zoonosis, that is, domestic and wild mammals are the main source of infection. A sick person with any form of toxoplasmosis is not contagious to others. The only exception is a pregnant woman with acute toxoplasmosis, which can infect the fetus in utero, and in some cases - blood and tissue donors.

There are the following ways of infection with toxoplasmosis:

Toxoplasma infection is widespread in all countries of the world and varies from 5-10% to 50-80% depending on age, national characteristics, sanitary and hygienic level of the population. Women are infected 2-3 times more often than men.

Susceptibility to toxoplasmosis is high. Immunity in toxoplasmosis is non-sterile, infectious. The immune state persists in the presence of a pathogen in the body, most often in the form of cysts. Antigenic metabolites that produce cysts maintain a certain level of humoral immunity, and also cause the development of delayed-type hypersensitivity.

The international classification of diseases distinguishes the following clinical forms of toxoplasmosis:

  • toxoplasmic chorioretinitis;
  • toxoplasmosis hepatitis;
  • toxoplasmosis meningoencephalitis;
  • pulmonary toxoplasmosis;
  • toxoplasmosis with damage to other organs (myocarditis, myositis);
  • toxoplasmosis, unspecified.

Depending on the clinical manifestations, most specialists distinguish between:

  • acquired toxoplasmosis (up to 99% of all cases of infection with T. gondii, usually has an asymptomatic course);
  • congenital toxoplasmosis.

According to the nature of the course of manifest toxoplasmosis, there are:

  • acute toxoplasmosis (up to 0.01% of those infected);
  • chronic toxoplasmosis (1-5%), has a tendency to relapse and exacerbations.

At acute manifestation toxoplasmosis common intoxication symptoms are:

  • general weakness,
  • headache,
  • malaise,
  • increase in body temperature,
  • myalgia,
  • arthralgia.

Due to a violation of the immune status, generalization of toxoplasmosis may occur:

  • increase in body temperature up to 39-40 ° C,
  • enlargement of the liver with possible damage to other organs and systems.

When mononucleosis-like course toxoplasmosis is observed:

  • marked enlargement of the cervical, occipital, inguinal, axillary lymph nodes,
  • lymphomonopitosis,
  • slight eosinophilia,
  • prolonged subfebrile condition.

When exanthemic flow Toxoplasmosis leading symptoms are:

  • rash,
  • swollen lymph nodes,
  • increase in body temperature,
  • signs of myocarditis
  • endocarditis,
  • encephalitis (more often in children and the elderly).

In the case of a gastroenterocolic course of toxoplasmosis, the following develop:

  • minor dyspeptic symptoms,
  • mesadenitis,
  • rarely hepatitis,
  • increase in body temperature,
  • liver enlargement,
  • swollen lymph nodes.

The meningoencephalic course of toxoplasmosis is manifested by:

  • severe serous meningitis,
  • signs of damage to the brain substance,
  • possible predominance of symptoms of myocarditis,
  • the predominance of symptoms of myocardial cardiosclerosis without the development of heart disease is possible.

If the eyes are affected (chorioretinitis, uveitis), blindness may develop.

chronic course has three main options:

  • more often, only an increase in antibody titer in dynamics is observed, without clinical manifestations ( abortive variant);
  • non-specific variant manifested by headache, mild malaise, swollen lymph nodes, persistent subfebrile condition, hair loss;
  • for clinically expressed variant polymorphism of manifestations from all organs and systems is characteristic; in most cases, lymphadenopathy, myositis, arthralgia, myocarditis or myocardial dystrophy are found, pneumonitis, gastritis, enterocolitis, lesions of the biliary tract and the female reproductive system (menstrual irregularities, salpingo-oophoritis, endometritis, infertility) are possible.

An important role is played by the defeat of the nervous system: the brain, its membranes, hypothalamus, peripheral nerves; manifested meningoencephalitis, encephalitis, vascular lesions, vegetative and mental disorders, convulsive syndrome. With eye damage, pathological changes are possible in all membranes, damage to the optic nerve, the external muscles of the eyeball occurs. In combination with chorioretinitis and other manifestations, keratoscleritis or keratouveitis is sometimes noted.

In persons with immunodeficiency states, a latent course or a new infection turns into a generalized process with damage to the brain, myocardium, lungs and other organs and tissues. Most often, the central nervous system is affected - severe necrotizing encephalitis occurs. AT different countries cerebral localization of toxoplasmosis is found in 3-40% of AIDS patients. The clinical picture is dominated by symptoms of focal encephalitis, which indicates damage to the cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum or trunk (hemiparesis, aphasia, disorientation, hemianopsia, convulsive syndrome, etc.), which are often combined with encephalopathy.

Extracerebral localization of toxoplasmosis in AIDS is characterized mainly by eye damage (50%), which is manifested by focal necrotic chorioretinitis without an inflammatory reaction; other organs (heart, lungs, lymph nodes, bone marrow, liver, pancreas, urinary and reproductive systems) may also be involved.

  • with manifest acute development of infection,
  • with chronic development in the period of exacerbation,
  • in the case of acquired toxoplasmosis in the presence of chorioretinitis,
  • against the background of miscarriage, infertility.

For treatment of toxoplasmosis in immunocompetent persons in the absence of pregnancy, the following is prescribed:

  • doxycycline - 0.1 g 2 times a day orally for 10 days;
  • chloroquine - 0.25 g 3 times a day in combination with metronidazole 0.2 g 3 times a day for 7-10 days;
  • pyrimethamine complex with sulfadoxine 1 tablet 2 times a day for 5 days with a break of 5-7 days, during which it is recommended to use folic acid preparations, and then repeat the course of sulfadoxins.

Throughout the etiotropic therapy, desensitizing and symptomatic agents are prescribed.

For the treatment of persons with immunodeficiency in the absence of pregnancy, at least two antiprotozoal drugs are prescribed simultaneously. Every 10 days, one or two drugs are replaced. In addition to the above funds, oral administration of clindamycin or spiramycin is possible. Be sure to use glucocorticosteroids, folic acid preparations, dehydration and detoxification therapy.

With HIV infection, the same drugs are prescribed for 3-6 weeks. In the future, lifelong relapse prevention is recommended.

A single course of complex therapy is considered effective in 90% of cases; the second course can be carried out from the 30th week of pregnancy. Patients with latent chronic toxoplasmosis do not need specific antiprotozoal treatment; they are shown the traditional therapy of concomitant diseases.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis during the period of exacerbation should be complex. Long-term antiprotozoal therapy is not pathogenetically justified. Treatment of concomitant diseases, rehabilitation of foci of chronic infections that negatively affect the state of the immune system, it is desirable to carry out before the appointment of antiprotozoal drugs.

What diseases can be associated

In the case of acquired toxoplasmosis, the characteristic complications are:

  • cardiosclerosis with the development of cardiovascular insufficiency,
  • consequences of encephalitis, hemorrhages in the substance of the brain,
  • accession of a secondary infection.

In the case of congenital toxoplasmosis, complications such as:

  • delayed physical and mental development,
  • paresis and paralysis,
  • blindness,
  • deafness.

With the development of acquired toxoplasmosis against the background of immunodeficiency and in the case of severe congenital toxoplasmosis, the prognosis of the day of life is extremely unfavorable.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis at home

Treatment of toxoplasmosis at home does not have sufficient effectiveness, although the medication prescribed by the doctor at a certain stage can be done at home. A patient with characteristic symptoms is usually hospitalized in the infectious diseases department, because here he is under the control of specialized specialists.

What drugs to treat toxoplasmosis?

  • - 0.1 g 2 times a day orally for 10 days;
  • - 0.45 g 3 times a day;
  • - 1 tablet 2 times a day for 5 days with a break of 5-7 days, during which it is recommended to use folic acid preparations;
  • Spiramycin - 1 g 3 times a day;
  • - 0.25 g 3 times a day for 7-10 days;
  • - in addition to chloroquine, 0.2 g 3 times a day for 7-10 days.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis with alternative methods

Treatment of toxoplasmosis folk remedies is not able to have a sufficient effect on the infection that provoked the disease, and therefore is considered a useless delay in time. The development of symptoms characteristic of the disease should be the reason for contacting a specialized medical institution for professional assistance.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy

A feature of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women is a predominantly asymptomatic course, therefore, it is possible to diagnose primary infection or exacerbation of chronic toxoplasmosis only on the basis of the results of laboratory studies conducted in dynamics. According to modern concepts, intrauterine infection of the fetus occurs transplacentally from a mother with an active form of toxoplasmosis, in the event of an acute infection or infection within 6 months before the onset of pregnancy.

Primary infection of pregnant women can result in spontaneous miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, the birth of a live infected child. The development of congenital toxoplasmosis is possible only with primary infection with toxoplasma during pregnancy, its frequency is 1 case per 1000-3500 born children. Depending on the time of infection of the fetus, there are:

  • chronic course(dangerous, infection occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy), which is characterized by malformations of the brain (atrophy, hydrocephalus, deformity of the ventricles of the brain), eyes (anophthalmia, coloboma, retinal atrophy), possible malformations of other organs;
  • subacute course(infection in the II trimester), manifested by active encephalitis, meningoencephalitis in combination with eye damage in the form of focal necrosis and inflammation of the retina (chorioretinitis, uveitis);
  • acute course(infection in the third trimester), in which body temperature rises, maculopapular rash, jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, anemia, myocarditis, pneumonia, and intestinal lesions occur.

In some cases, the severity of the process subsides; in patients, general intoxication symptoms are observed, which periodically increase, signs of damage to the central nervous system and the organ of vision (delayed psychomotor development, paresis, paralysis, epileptiform seizures, chorioretinitis). In the absence of signs of a long-term invasive process, persistent irreversible changes (microcephaly, calcifications in the brain, partial atrophy of the optic nerves, chorioretinal scars) may persist, which should be interpreted as residual symptoms. At the age of 10-12 years, an acute course with subclinical manifestations is possible. In some cases, a delay in physical and mental development, epileptiform seizures, endocrine disorders, and chorioretinitis are also detected.

Treatment of acute toxoplasmosis in pregnant women has two goals:

  • sanitation of toxoplasmosis in the mother,
  • prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis.

After the 16th week of pregnancy, spiramycin is prescribed orally according to one of the following schemes (determined by the attending physician):

  • a single dose of 1.5 g twice a day for 6 weeks;
  • a single dose of 3 g twice a day for 4 weeks;
  • single dose 3 times a day for 10 days.

From the 12-13th week of pregnancy, as well as in the case of the appointment of spiramycin, immunotherapy with human immunoglobulin against T. gondii is carried out, which is indicated in the treatment of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and urogenital pathology against the background of toxoplasmosis. Immunoglobulin is administered simultaneously with antihistamines that can be used during pregnancy.

The choice of a treatment regimen is purely individual, it is prescribed by an infectious disease specialist who knows the chosen method of therapy.

Prevention of toxoplasmosis includes careful heat treatment of food products, especially meat products and milk, personal hygiene, prevention of contamination of places of stay and children's games with cat excrement. The main measures for the prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis is the timely examination of women of reproductive age and pregnant women in antenatal clinics.

Indications for examination for toxoplasmosis are:

  • pregnancy, suspicion of congenital toxoplasmosis (but it is advisable to conduct the first examination at the stage of family planning);
  • persistent miscarriage, infertility;
  • prolonged (more than 3 weeks) increase in body temperature to subfebrile numbers of unknown origin;
  • an increase in peripheral lymph nodes (cervical, occipital, axillary, elbow), if it cannot be explained by other reasons;
  • slow progression of neuroinfection in combination with lymphadenitis, enlargement of the liver, spleen, attachment of damage to the organ of vision and myocarditis from the 3rd week of the disease;
  • eye lesions (chorioretinitis), accompanied by low-grade fever, enlarged lymph nodes, liver, spleen, muscle and joint pain.

The polymorphism of the clinical manifestations of both acquired and congenital toxoplasmosis, the absence of pathognomonic symptoms necessitates a thorough confirmation of the diagnosis using specific methods of laboratory research. The vast majority of experts recognize that no single research method can completely solve the problem of diagnosing toxoplasmosis. Normally, Toxoplasma can be found in 30% of clinically healthy individuals. Therefore (given the long-term persistence of the pathogen), the detection of IgG to Toxoplasma in any concentration is only a statement of the fact of the presence of T. gondii in the body of the subject. There are the following methods of specific diagnostics:

In patients with normal immunity, the detection of IgM and the increase in its titer after 3 weeks in the patient's serum indicates the acute development of acquired toxoplasmosis. An increase in IgG titer without an increase in IgM concentration indicates the chronic development of toxoplasmosis.

In neonates, serodiagnosis is based on long-term storage of IgG and detection of IgM one week after birth. The IgG titer is assessed every 2 months. An increase in IgM titer after the 1st week of life indicates an acute course of toxoplasmosis. However, up to 25% of newborns remain seronegative and have no abnormalities during examination, therefore, CT, MRI, ophthalmological examination, and specific studies of cerebrospinal fluid are necessary to establish the diagnosis.

Criteria to exclude the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis:

  • negative serological reactions (absence of specific antibodies to T. gondii of IgM, IgG classes using ELISA) against the background of moderate immunodeficiency;
  • negative serological tests performed at intervals of 2-3 weeks, even in the presence of some suspicious clinical signs, make the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis extremely unlikely;
    • Treatment of tuberculosis of the spleen

    The information is for educational purposes only. Do not self-medicate; For all questions regarding the definition of the disease and how to treat it, contact your doctor. EUROLAB is not responsible for the consequences caused by the use of the information posted on the portal.