Toxoplasmosis + Iritis = No Cats?

Posted by No Cats? on May 15, 1999 at 15:46:15
I am a 28 year old female.  I developed iritis about 12 years ago when I still lived at home with my parents.  My ophthalmologist, at that time, ran some blood tests and found that I had toxoplasmosis.  Since I had several cats at the time, he concluded that my problems may have been caused from my furry friends.  That caused my parents to find new homes for my cats.  Well, twelve years have passed and I am still having problems with iritis.  Many of the eye drops that I have tried caused glaucoma pressure.  I am now using Flarex once a day.  I don't have many everyday problems....other than floaters.  My question to you is, "Can I have a cat?"        

Posted by HFHS MD - NI on May 16, 1999 at 11:02:59
You describe symptoms of inflammation in the eye.  There can be many possible causes.  Toxoplasmosis is an infection which usually is acquired as an infant but can also be acquired later.  Treatment includes steroids and possibly anti toxoplasmosis medicines.  Since you have such a chronic course, you need to see a UVEITIS specialist.  These doctors are usually in academic referral centers (such as Henry Ford Hospita).  He or she can help confirm the diagnosis of toxo and direct you to more specific treatment if appropriate.  He or she can also answer you cat question.  I do not believe you should be at much higher risk of reinfection compared to other people, but this is best determined by your ophthalmologist.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Please see your physician for diagnostic and treatment options.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI