Ocular Toxoplasmosis in Brazil versus Europe
Author Information
Author(s): Gilbert Ruth E., Freeman Katherine, Lago Eleonor G., Bahia-Oliveira Lilian M. G., Tan Hooi Kuan, Wallon Martine, Buffolano Wilma, Stanford Miles R., Petersen Eskild
Primary Institution: Centre for Paediatric Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Is ocular toxoplasmosis more severe in Brazil compared to Europe due to more virulent strains of Toxoplasma gondii?
Conclusion
Congenital toxoplasmosis results in more severe ocular disease in Brazil than in Europe.
Supporting Evidence
- Brazilian children had a 5 times higher risk of developing eye lesions than European children.
- Children in Brazil had larger and more numerous lesions affecting the posterior pole.
- By 4 years of age, 67% of Brazilian children had retinochoroiditis compared to 18% in Europe.
Takeaway
Kids in Brazil get worse eye problems from a parasite than kids in Europe, likely because the parasite is stronger there.
Methodology
The study compared cohorts of children with congenital toxoplasmosis identified by universal neonatal screening in Brazil and Europe.
Potential Biases
Brazilian ophthalmologists may have more experience with toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis than their European counterparts.
Limitations
Potential detection bias due to differences in ophthalmologist experience and examination methods.
Participant Demographics
Children with congenital toxoplasmosis from Brazil and Europe, with varying screening methods.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95%CI: 3.17, 9.08
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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