[Toxoplasmic encephalitis in a case of acute myelogenous leukemia after conventional consolidation chemotherapy].

Abstract

Toxoplasmic encephalitis is a rare complication in patients with hematological malignancies. It is infrequently reported in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, much less in patients after conventional chemotherapy. A 75-year old female with acute myelogenous leukemia had an episode of aphasia, right homonymous hemianopsia, and consciousness disturbance 122 days after consolidation chemotherapy. Multiple enhancing space occupying lesions involving the left occipital lobe were seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). HIV antibody was negative. Based on radiological findings, clinical presentation and positive Toxoplasma gondii serostatus, sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine were added. A rapid improvement was observed thereafter. Heightened awareness of the occurrence of toxoplasmic encephalitis, even in non-HIV patients, is needed for a better outcome.