Frequency and visual outcomes of ocular toxoplasmosis in an adult Brazilian population

Abstract

Although ocular toxoplasmosis is a leading cause of posterior uveitis worldwide, there is scarce information about the real-life frequency of ocular lesions, visual outcomes, and risk factors for poor prognosis. We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study with 721 adults living in Cássia dos Coqueiros, Southeast Brazil, consisted of visual acuity measurement, dilated ocular examination, a risk-factor questionnaire, and peripheral blood collection for anti-T. gondii serology. Presumed toxoplasmic lesions were recorded on video and analyzed by experienced and masked ophthalmologists. Ocular toxoplasmosis was determined if at least one suspected lesion was appointed by two graders in the presence of positive anti-T. gondii serology. Forty-eight eyes (n = 42 participants; 6.7% among those with positive anti-T. gondii serology) with ocular toxoplasmosis were found. Most lesions were single (n = 28; 58.3%), peripheral (n = 34; 77.1%) and unilateral (85.7% of participants); no active lesions were found. Older age was associated with lesions larger than one-disc diameter (p = 0.047), and lower social stratum (OR: 2.89; CI 1.2–6.97; p = 0.018) was associated with the presence of toxoplasmic lesions. Although there were no differences in visual acuity between participants and eyes with or without ocular lesions (p > 0.05), unilateral blindness associated with ocular toxoplasmosis was identified in a reduced number of individuals.