High frequency of ocular toxoplasmosis in Quindio, Colombia and risk factors related to the infection.
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ABSTRACT: Objectives
To determine the frequency of retinochoroidal lesions by ocular toxoplasmosis and their relationships with risk factors, in residents of two districts with high exposure to Toxoplasma, in Armenia-Quindío, Colombia.Methods
Cross-sectional analyses of fundoscopy screening, serological tests, and questionnaires were performed to determine risk factors associated with ocular toxoplasmosis retinochoroidal lesions. Differences in proportions were analyzed using the chi-squared test.Results
Of 161 individuals examined, 17 (10.5%) exhibited retinochoroidal scars suggestive of old inactive Toxoplasma gondii infection. All 17 individuals were seropositive for T. gondii antibodies. Consumption of bottled water was protective against T. gondii infection among individuals in this study. There were no specific epidemiological risk factors associated with ocular toxoplasmosis retinochoroidal lesions.Conclusion
Ocular toxoplasmosis is an important cause of visual impairment in Armenia-Quindío, Colombia. The consumption of boiled or bottled water is a major preventive public health measure to reduce infection by T. gondii and the subsequent onset of OT.
SUBMITTER: Gomez-Marin JE
PROVIDER: S-EPMC8056222 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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