Toxoplasmosis, a potential factor in psychotic disorders: A case report Cover Image

Toxoplasmosis, a potential factor in psychotic disorders: A case report
Toxoplasmosis, a potential factor in psychotic disorders: A case report

Author(s): Floris Petru Iliuță, Andreea Anca Ștefănescu, Radu Mihail Lacău, Corina Ioana Varlam, Aliss Madalina Mareș, Bogdan Novac, Mihnea Manea
Subject(s): Essay|Book Review |Scientific Life
Published by: Editura Sedcom Libris Iasi
Keywords: Toxoplasmosis; induced-psychotic disorder; organic psychotic disorder.

Summary/Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii infection has been correlated with an increased risk of psychosis, but the connection between T. gondii and psychosis-like symptoms in the general adult population remains unclear. This paper analyzes the case of a 36-year-old patient with psychiatric history who was hospitalized after a suicide attempt by medication ingestion. Serological lab test results indicated the presence of T. gondii antibodies, and psychiatric evaluation revealed symptoms such as auditory hallucinations, delusional ideas, and psychotic anxiety. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a demyelinating lesion in the right frontal area, and ophthalmologic examination revealed ocular abnormalities: lessening of nervous fibres in the temporal region of the retina, three macular and juxta-macular lesions. The formulated diagnosis was acute psychotic disorder secondary to a general medical condition. The patient's treatment included Olanzapine, Sertraline, and Diazepam, with good response. The discussion explores the potential link between toxoplasmosis and psychiatric manifestations, supporting the hypothesis of a causal relation. The conclusions highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach in diagnosing and treating mental disorders associated with somatic manifestations and organic causes.

  • Issue Year: 100/2024
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 79-84
  • Page Count: 6
  • Language: English
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