Histoplasmosis vs Toxoplasmosis

Posted by Joey on June 27, 1999 at 22:35:50
I sent you question several weeks ago about my daughter and her diagnosis of histoplasmosis choridrentinitis.  After 2 weeks on Prednisone her vision has improved, but after follow up lab work, she was now diagnosed as having toxoplasmosis.  What type of treatment will she need now?  She also has mystenia gravis which is in remission at this time and I was advised she in unable to take any drugs in the mycin family.  Does this (toxoplasmosis) just "go away" after treatment?  Thanks.

Posted by HFHS MD-JL on June 27, 1999 at 23:09:36
Many people have been infected with toxoplasmosis and never new about it.  This includes previous eye infections.  Toxoplasmosis causes significant inflammation in the eye and this is why it responded so well to steroids.  She should also be treated with antibiotics as well.  If the infection/inflammation involves the center of the back of the eye (macula or optic nerve) than this is usually treated with medication but if the involvement is in the peripheral retina then it does not have to be treated.  The body can wall off this organism.  This organism may reactivate later and she will need to be followed for recurrences.  She also needs a systemic work up to make sure there is no other involvement.
This info was provided for educational purposes only.  Please call 8003637575 if you are interested in seeing a Henry Ford Ophthalmologist.
HFHS MD-JL