Long-term effects of Toxoplasmosis

Posted by Joe on July 26, 1999 at 17:00:57
I'm a 37-year-old male diagnosed with toxoplamosis a few years ago. The parasite apparently attacks my left retina every couple of years,leaving me with a difficult-to-describe deterioration of vision -- something like looking through a heavy and wrecked spider web. The eye doctor tells me I'm fortunate because the area affected is off to the side and not close to the optic nerve. Sometimes he'll give me a dose of antibiotics when he thinks the parasite is active, but my vision usually clears up on its own after a month or so. My concern is that the frequency of these attacks seem to be increasing and I've had difficulty getting answers about the long term effects of the disease. For instance, will the parasite claim more and more of my retina/vision? Is there anything I can do to prevent this from happening?
thank you

Posted by HFHS MD - NI on July 27, 1999 at 19:59:51
It is not uncommon for toxoplasmosis to recur intermittantly.  Your ophthalmologist is right in that it can expand and it may affect the area of best vision.  It is important to have regular follow-up and immediately inform your ophthalmologist about any signs of a possible recurrence.  You may want to consult a UVEITIS specialist.  They are usually located in tertiary care referral centers or at universities.  If you cannot find one, we have one at the Henry Ford Hospital and you can contact us at 1-800-363-7575.
This information is for educational purposes only.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI