Cerebral toxoplasmosis in Malaysia: a debilitating disease, an insight from a case study

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is an infectious disease caused by the intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. While the infection is typically asymptomatic in healthy individuals, it can progress to cerebral toxoplasmosis, especially in those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or weakened immune systems. In this communication, we present a case of a newly diagnosed HIV infection patient who presented with neurological symptoms. The patient was later diagnosed with probable cerebral toxoplasmosis. The case depicts the severe consequences of toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients, highlighting the urgent need to identify those at high risk of contracting the disease and the importance of prophylactic treatment. This requires the necessity for early HIV diagnosis and close monitoring of HIV-positive patients.