Toxoplasmosis-selected epidemiological characteristics and laboratory experience in Pilsen

Toxoplasmosis is one the most prevalent protozoan diseases in the world. Some regions declare up to 80% presence of antibodies in human population. The prevalence in Czech Republic varies depending on the region between 25%-50%. The cause of this disease is protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. The final host is cat and other felines in which GIT the sexual cycle of this parasite takes place. Human together with other 350 animal species is the intermediate host. In those individuals parasite forms so called tissue cysts in which it could persist for its entire life. The infection is acquired through undercooked meat or organs of the intermediate host, manipulation with meat or organs of infected individuals, eating of food contaminated with cat feces and/or through contact with contaminated outside environment. Infection proceeds without any symptoms in 90% of immunocompetent patients. 10% patients display sometimes very various clinical symptoms. The disease is divided into different forms according to prevailing symptoms. This disease presents a great danger to immunosuppressed patients and pregnant females. In the first group it can cause a serious damage of CNS (Central Nervous System) and in some parts of the world it is one of the most frequent death causes in HIV positive patients. In pregnant females..