THE OFFICIAL PATIENT’S SOURCEBOOK
on
TOXOPLASMOSIS
J AMES N. P ARKER , M.D. AND P HILIP M. P ARKER , P H .D., E DITORS
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ICON Health Publications ICON Group International, Inc. 4370 La Jolla Village Drive, 4th Floor San Diego, CA 92122 USA Copyright Ó2002 by ICON Group International, Inc. Copyright Ó2002 by ICON Group International, Inc. All rights reserved. This book is protected by copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the United States of America. Last digit indicates print number: 10 9 8 7 6 4 5 3 2 1
Publisher, Health Care: Tiffany LaRochelle Editor(s): James Parker, M.D., Philip Parker, Ph.D. Publisher’s note: The ideas, procedures, and suggestions contained in this book are not intended as a substitute for consultation with your physician. All matters regarding your health require medical supervision. As new medical or scientific information becomes available from academic and clinical research, recommended treatments and drug therapies may undergo changes. The authors, editors, and publisher have attempted to make the information in this book up to date and accurate in accord with accepted standards at the time of publication. The authors, editors, and publisher are not responsible for errors or omissions or for consequences from application of the book, and make no warranty, expressed or implied, in regard to the contents of this book. Any practice described in this book should be applied by the reader in accordance with professional standards of care used in regard to the unique circumstances that may apply in each situation, in close consultation with a qualified physician. The reader is advised to always check product information (package inserts) for changes and new information regarding dose and contraindications before taking any drug or pharmacological product. Caution is especially urged when using new or infrequently ordered drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements, alternative therapies, complementary therapies and medicines, and integrative medical treatments. Cataloging-in-Publication Data Parker, James N., 1961Parker, Philip M., 1960The Official Patient’s Sourcebook on Toxoplasmosis: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age/James N. Parker and Philip M. Parker, editors p. cm. Includes bibliographical references, glossary and index. ISBN: 0-597-83444-X 1. Toxoplasmosis-Popular works. I. Title.
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Disclaimer This publication is not intended to be used for the diagnosis or treatment of a health problem or as a substitute for consultation with licensed medical professionals. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher, editors, and authors are not engaging in the rendering of medical, psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. References to any entity, product, service, or source of information that may be contained in this publication should not be considered an endorsement, either direct or implied, by the publisher, editors or authors. ICON Group International, Inc., the editors, or the authors are not responsible for the content of any Web pages nor publications referenced in this publication.
Copyright Notice If a physician wishes to copy limited passages from this sourcebook for patient use, this right is automatically granted without written permission from ICON Group International, Inc. (ICON Group). However, all of ICON Group publications are copyrighted. With exception to the above, copying our publications in whole or in part, for whatever reason, is a violation of copyright laws and can lead to penalties and fines. Should you want to copy tables, graphs or other materials, please contact us to request permission (e-mail:
[email protected]). ICON Group often grants permission for very limited reproduction of our publications for internal use, press releases, and academic research. Such reproduction requires confirmed permission from ICON Group International Inc. The disclaimer above must accompany all reproductions, in whole or in part, of this sourcebook.
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Dedication To the healthcare professionals dedicating their time and efforts to the study of toxoplasmosis.
Acknowledgements The collective knowledge generated from academic and applied research summarized in various references has been critical in the creation of this sourcebook which is best viewed as a comprehensive compilation and collection of information prepared by various official agencies which directly or indirectly are dedicated to toxoplasmosis. All of the Official Patient’s Sourcebooks draw from various agencies and institutions associated with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and in particular, the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (OS), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Administration on Aging (AOA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Healthcare Financing Administration (HCFA), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Indian Health Service (IHS), the institutions of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Program Support Center (PSC), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In addition to these sources, information gathered from the National Library of Medicine, the United States Patent Office, the European Union, and their related organizations has been invaluable in the creation of this sourcebook. Some of the work represented was financially supported by the Research and Development Committee at INSEAD. This support is gratefully acknowledged. Finally, special thanks are owed to Tiffany LaRochelle for her excellent editorial support.
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About the Editors James N. Parker, M.D. Dr. James N. Parker received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Riverside and his M.D. from the University of California, San Diego. In addition to authoring numerous research publications, he has lectured at various academic institutions. Dr. Parker is the medical editor for the Official Patient’s Sourcebook series published by ICON Health Publications.
Philip M. Parker, Ph.D. Philip M. Parker is the Eli Lilly Chair Professor of Innovation, Business and Society at INSEAD (Fontainebleau, France and Singapore). Dr. Parker has also been Professor at the University of California, San Diego and has taught courses at Harvard University, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, and UCLA. Dr. Parker is the associate editor for the Official Patient’s Sourcebook series published by ICON Health Publications.
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About ICON Health Publications In addition to toxoplasmosis, Official Patient’s Sourcebooks are available for the following related topics: ·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Acanthamoeba Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Alveolar Hydatid Disease
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Amebiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Angiostrongylus Cantonensis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Anisakiasis
·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Ascaris Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Babesia Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Balantidiasis
·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Baylisascaris
·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Blastocystis Hominis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Body Lice
·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Capillaria Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Chagas Disease
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Chronic Diarrhea
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Clonorchiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Cryptosporidium
·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Cysticercosis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Dientamoeba Fragilis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Diphyllobothrium Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Dipylidium Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Dracunculiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on East African Trypanosomiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Fasciola Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Fasciolopsiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Giardiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Gnathostoma Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Head Lice
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Heterophyes Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Hookworm
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Hymenloepis Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Infection with Nonpathogenic Intestinal Amebas
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Isospora Belli
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Leishmaniasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Lymphatic Filariasis
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·
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Microsporidiosis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Naegleria
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Opisthorchis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Paragonimus
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Pinworm Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Pneumocystis Carinii
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Pubic Lice
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Scabies
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Schistosomiasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Strongyloides
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Swimmer's Itch
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Taenia Saginata
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Toxocariasis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Trichinosis
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Trichomonas Infection
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Trichuris Trichiura
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The Official Patient's Sourcebook on West African Trypanosomiasis
To discover more about ICON Health Publications, simply check with your preferred online booksellers, including Barnes & Noble.com and Amazon.com which currently carry all of our titles. Or, feel free to contact us directly for bulk purchases or institutional discounts: ICON Group International, Inc. 4370 La Jolla Village Drive, Fourth Floor San Diego, CA 92122 USA Fax: 858-546-4341 Web site: www.icongrouponline.com/health
Contents
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Table of Contents INTRODUCTION...................................................................................... 1
Overview............................................................................................................... 1 Organization......................................................................................................... 3 Scope ..................................................................................................................... 3 Moving Forward................................................................................................... 4
PART I: THE ESSENTIALS ................................................. 7 CHAPTER 1. THE ESSENTIALS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS: GUIDELINES ....... 9
Overview............................................................................................................... 9 What Is Toxoplasmosis? ..................................................................................... 10 How Can I Get Toxoplasmosis? ......................................................................... 11 What Are the Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis? ...................................................... 11 How Do I Know If I Have Toxoplasmosis? ........................................................ 11 Who Is at Risk for Severe Toxoplasmosis? ......................................................... 12 How Can I Prevent Toxoplasmosis? .................................................................. 12 Am I Able to Keep My Cat? ............................................................................... 13 Will My Cat Always Spread the Infection? ....................................................... 13 What Is the Treatment for Toxoplasmosis?........................................................ 13 Toxoplasmosis: Technical Notes ......................................................................... 14 Causal Agent ...................................................................................................... 14 Life Cycle ............................................................................................................ 14 Geographic Distribution..................................................................................... 16 Clinical Features................................................................................................. 17 Laboratory Diagnosis.......................................................................................... 17 Treatment............................................................................................................ 18 For More Information......................................................................................... 18 More Guideline Sources ..................................................................................... 18 Vocabulary Builder............................................................................................. 25
CHAPTER 2. SEEKING GUIDANCE ....................................................... 29
Overview............................................................................................................. 29 Associations and Toxoplasmosis......................................................................... 29 Finding More Associations................................................................................. 31 Finding Doctors.................................................................................................. 32 Selecting Your Doctor ........................................................................................ 34 Working with Your Doctor ................................................................................ 34 Broader Health-Related Resources ..................................................................... 36
CHAPTER 3. CLINICAL TRIALS AND TOXOPLASMOSIS........................ 37
Overview............................................................................................................. 37 Recent Trials on Toxoplasmosis ......................................................................... 40 Benefits and Risks............................................................................................... 41 Keeping Current on Clinical Trials.................................................................... 44
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Contents
General References.............................................................................................. 45 Vocabulary Builder............................................................................................. 46
PART II: ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND ADVANCED MATERIAL.................................................. 47 CHAPTER 4. STUDIES ON TOXOPLASMOSIS ......................................... 49
Overview............................................................................................................. 49 The Combined Health Information Database ..................................................... 49 Federally-Funded Research on Toxoplasmosis ................................................... 54 E-Journals: PubMed Central .............................................................................. 65 The National Library of Medicine: PubMed ...................................................... 70 Vocabulary Builder............................................................................................. 70
CHAPTER 5. PATENTS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS ........................................ 81
Overview............................................................................................................. 81 Patents on Toxoplasmosis................................................................................... 82 Patent Applications on Toxoplasmosis............................................................... 88 Keeping Current ................................................................................................. 88 Vocabulary Builder............................................................................................. 89
CHAPTER 6. BOOKS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS ........................................... 91
Overview............................................................................................................. 91 Book Summaries: Federal Agencies .................................................................... 91 Book Summaries: Online Booksellers ................................................................. 92 The National Library of Medicine Book Index ................................................... 94 Chapters on Toxoplasmosis ................................................................................ 97 General Home References ................................................................................. 100 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 100
CHAPTER 7. MULTIMEDIA ON TOXOPLASMOSIS............................... 107
Overview........................................................................................................... 107 Video Recordings .............................................................................................. 107 Audio Recordings ............................................................................................. 109 Bibliography: Multimedia on Toxoplasmosis ................................................... 110 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 111
CHAPTER 8. PERIODICALS AND NEWS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS............ 113
Overview........................................................................................................... 113 News Services & Press Releases ....................................................................... 113 Newsletter Articles ........................................................................................... 118 Academic Periodicals covering Toxoplasmosis................................................. 119 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 120
CHAPTER 9. PHYSICIAN GUIDELINES AND DATABASES ................... 121
Overview........................................................................................................... 121 NIH Guidelines................................................................................................. 121 NIH Databases.................................................................................................. 122 Other Commercial Databases ........................................................................... 127
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The Genome Project and Toxoplasmosis .......................................................... 127 Specialized References....................................................................................... 132 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 133
CHAPTER 10. DISSERTATIONS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS ......................... 135
Overview........................................................................................................... 135 Dissertations on Toxoplasmosis ....................................................................... 135 Keeping Current ............................................................................................... 136
PART III. APPENDICES .................................................. 137 APPENDIX A. RESEARCHING YOUR MEDICATIONS.......................... 139
Overview........................................................................................................... 139 Your Medications: The Basics .......................................................................... 140 Learning More about Your Medications .......................................................... 141 Commercial Databases...................................................................................... 144 Contraindications and Interactions (Hidden Dangers) ................................... 145 A Final Warning .............................................................................................. 146 General References............................................................................................ 147 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 147
APPENDIX B. RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ................... 149
Overview........................................................................................................... 149 What Is CAM? ................................................................................................. 149 What Are the Domains of Alternative Medicine?............................................ 150 Can Alternatives Affect My Treatment? ......................................................... 153 Finding CAM References on Toxoplasmosis.................................................... 154 Additional Web Resources................................................................................ 157 General References............................................................................................ 158 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 160
APPENDIX C. RESEARCHING NUTRITION ......................................... 161
Overview........................................................................................................... 161 Food and Nutrition: General Principles........................................................... 162 Finding Studies on Toxoplasmosis ................................................................... 166 Federal Resources on Nutrition........................................................................ 171 Additional Web Resources................................................................................ 172 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 172
APPENDIX D. FINDING MEDICAL LIBRARIES.................................... 175
Overview........................................................................................................... 175 Preparation ....................................................................................................... 175 Finding a Local Medical Library ...................................................................... 176 Medical Libraries Open to the Public............................................................... 176
APPENDIX E. YOUR RIGHTS AND INSURANCE ................................. 183
Overview........................................................................................................... 183 Your Rights as a Patient................................................................................... 183 Patient Responsibilities .................................................................................... 187
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Choosing an Insurance Plan............................................................................. 188 Medicare and Medicaid .................................................................................... 190 NORD’s Medication Assistance Programs ..................................................... 193 Additional Resources ........................................................................................ 194 Vocabulary Builder........................................................................................... 195
ONLINE GLOSSARIES.................................................... 197 Online Dictionary Directories.......................................................................... 206
TOXOPLASMOSIS GLOSSARY.................................... 207 General Dictionaries and Glossaries ................................................................ 229
INDEX................................................................................... 231
Introduction
1
INTRODUCTION Overview Dr. C. Everett Koop, former U.S. Surgeon General, once said, “The best prescription is knowledge.”1 The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) echoes this view and recommends that every patient incorporate education into the treatment process. According to the AHRQ: Finding out more about your condition is a good place to start. By contacting groups that support your condition, visiting your local library, and searching on the Internet, you can find good information to help guide your treatment decisions. Some information may be hard to find—especially if you don’t know where to look.2 As the AHRQ mentions, finding the right information is not an obvious task. Though many physicians and public officials had thought that the emergence of the Internet would do much to assist patients in obtaining reliable information, in March 2001 the National Institutes of Health issued the following warning: The number of Web sites offering health-related resources grows every day. Many sites provide valuable information, while others may have information that is unreliable or misleading.3
Quotation from http://www.drkoop.com. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ): http://www.ahcpr.gov/consumer/diaginfo.htm. 3 From the NIH, National Cancer Institute (NCI): http://cancertrials.nci.nih.gov/beyond/evaluating.html. 1 2
2
Toxoplasmosis
Since the late 1990s, physicians have seen a general increase in patient Internet usage rates. Patients frequently enter their doctor’s offices with printed Web pages of home remedies in the guise of latest medical research. This scenario is so common that doctors often spend more time dispelling misleading information than guiding patients through sound therapies. The Official Patient’s Sourcebook on Toxoplasmosis has been created for patients who have decided to make education and research an integral part of the treatment process. The pages that follow will tell you where and how to look for information covering virtually all topics related to toxoplasmosis, from the essentials to the most advanced areas of research. The title of this book includes the word “official.” This reflects the fact that the sourcebook draws from public, academic, government, and peerreviewed research. Selected readings from various agencies are reproduced to give you some of the latest official information available to date on toxoplasmosis. Given patients’ increasing sophistication in using the Internet, abundant references to reliable Internet-based resources are provided throughout this sourcebook. Where possible, guidance is provided on how to obtain free-ofcharge, primary research results as well as more detailed information via the Internet. E-book and electronic versions of this sourcebook are fully interactive with each of the Internet sites mentioned (clicking on a hyperlink automatically opens your browser to the site indicated). Hard copy users of this sourcebook can type cited Web addresses directly into their browsers to obtain access to the corresponding sites. Since we are working with ICON Health Publications, hard copy Sourcebooks are frequently updated and printed on demand to ensure that the information provided is current. In addition to extensive references accessible via the Internet, every chapter presents a “Vocabulary Builder.” Many health guides offer glossaries of technical or uncommon terms in an appendix. In editing this sourcebook, we have decided to place a smaller glossary within each chapter that covers terms used in that chapter. Given the technical nature of some chapters, you may need to revisit many sections. Building one’s vocabulary of medical terms in such a gradual manner has been shown to improve the learning process. We must emphasize that no sourcebook on toxoplasmosis should affirm that a specific diagnostic procedure or treatment discussed in a research study, patent, or doctoral dissertation is “correct” or your best option. This sourcebook is no exception. Each patient is unique. Deciding on appropriate
Introduction
3
options is always up to the patient in consultation with their physician and healthcare providers.
Organization This sourcebook is organized into three parts. Part I explores basic techniques to researching toxoplasmosis (e.g. finding guidelines on diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis), followed by a number of topics, including information on how to get in touch with organizations, associations, or other patient networks dedicated to toxoplasmosis. It also gives you sources of information that can help you find a doctor in your local area specializing in treating toxoplasmosis. Collectively, the material presented in Part I is a complete primer on basic research topics for patients with toxoplasmosis. Part II moves on to advanced research dedicated to toxoplasmosis. Part II is intended for those willing to invest many hours of hard work and study. It is here that we direct you to the latest scientific and applied research on toxoplasmosis. When possible, contact names, links via the Internet, and summaries are provided. It is in Part II where the vocabulary process becomes important as authors publishing advanced research frequently use highly specialized language. In general, every attempt is made to recommend “free-to-use” options. Part III provides appendices of useful background reading for all patients with toxoplasmosis or related disorders. The appendices are dedicated to more pragmatic issues faced by many patients with toxoplasmosis. Accessing materials via medical libraries may be the only option for some readers, so a guide is provided for finding local medical libraries which are open to the public. Part III, therefore, focuses on advice that goes beyond the biological and scientific issues facing patients with toxoplasmosis.
Scope While this sourcebook covers toxoplasmosis, your doctor, research publications, and specialists may refer to your condition using a variety of terms. Therefore, you should understand that toxoplasmosis is often considered a synonym or a condition closely related to the following: ·
Torch Syndrome
·
Toxoplasma
4
Toxoplasmosis
In addition to synonyms and related conditions, physicians may refer to toxoplasmosis using certain coding systems. The International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) is the most commonly used system of classification for the world’s illnesses. Your physician may use this coding system as an administrative or tracking tool. The following classification is commonly used for toxoplasmosis:4 ·
130.9 toxoplasmosis
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130.9 toxoplasmosis, unspecified
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771.2 other congenital infections
For the purposes of this sourcebook, we have attempted to be as inclusive as possible, looking for official information for all of the synonyms relevant to toxoplasmosis. You may find it useful to refer to synonyms when accessing databases or interacting with healthcare professionals and medical librarians.
Moving Forward Since the 1980s, the world has seen a proliferation of healthcare guides covering most illnesses. Some are written by patients or their family members. These generally take a layperson’s approach to understanding and coping with an illness or disorder. They can be uplifting, encouraging, and highly supportive. Other guides are authored by physicians or other healthcare providers who have a more clinical outlook. Each of these two styles of guide has its purpose and can be quite useful. As editors, we have chosen a third route. We have chosen to expose you to as many sources of official and peer-reviewed information as practical, for the purpose of educating you about basic and advanced knowledge as recognized by medical science today. You can think of this sourcebook as your personal Internet age reference librarian. Why “Internet age”? All too often, patients diagnosed with toxoplasmosis will log on to the Internet, type words into a search engine, and receive several Web site listings which are mostly irrelevant or redundant. These patients are left to wonder where the relevant information is, and how to This list is based on the official version of the World Health Organization’s 9th Revision, International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9). According to the National Technical Information Service, “ICD-9CM extensions, interpretations, modifications, addenda, or errata other than those approved by the U.S. Public Health Service and the Health Care Financing Administration are not to be considered official and should not be utilized. Continuous maintenance of the ICD-9-CM is the responsibility of the federal government.”
4
Introduction
5
obtain it. Since only the smallest fraction of information dealing with toxoplasmosis is even indexed in search engines, a non-systematic approach often leads to frustration and disappointment. With this sourcebook, we hope to direct you to the information you need that you would not likely find using popular Web directories. Beyond Web listings, in many cases we will reproduce brief summaries or abstracts of available reference materials. These abstracts often contain distilled information on topics of discussion. While we focus on the more scientific aspects of toxoplasmosis, there is, of course, the emotional side to consider. Later in the sourcebook, we provide a chapter dedicated to helping you find peer groups and associations that can provide additional support beyond research produced by medical science. We hope that the choices we have made give you the most options available in moving forward. In this way, we wish you the best in your efforts to incorporate this educational approach into your treatment plan. The Editors
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PART I: THE ESSENTIALS
ABOUT PART I Part I has been edited to give you access to what we feel are “the essentials” on toxoplasmosis. The essentials of a disease typically include the definition or description of the disease, a discussion of who it affects, the signs or symptoms associated with the disease, tests or diagnostic procedures that might be specific to the disease, and treatments for the disease. Your doctor or healthcare provider may have already explained the essentials of toxoplasmosis to you or even given you a pamphlet or brochure describing toxoplasmosis. Now you are searching for more in-depth information. As editors, we have decided, nevertheless, to include a discussion on where to find essential information that can complement what your doctor has already told you. In this section we recommend a process, not a particular Web site or reference book. The process ensures that, as you search the Web, you gain background information in such a way as to maximize your understanding.
Guidelines
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CHAPTER 1. THE ESSENTIALS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS: GUIDELINES Overview Official agencies, as well as federally-funded institutions supported by national grants, frequently publish a variety of guidelines on toxoplasmosis. These are typically called “Fact Sheets” or “Guidelines.” They can take the form of a brochure, information kit, pamphlet, or flyer. Often they are only a few pages in length. The great advantage of guidelines over other sources is that they are often written with the patient in mind. Since new guidelines on toxoplasmosis can appear at any moment and be published by a number of sources, the best approach to finding guidelines is to systematically scan the Internet-based services that post them.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH)5 The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the first place to search for relatively current patient guidelines and fact sheets on toxoplasmosis. Originally founded in 1887, the NIH is one of the world’s foremost medical research centers and the federal focal point for medical research in the United States. At any given time, the NIH supports some 35,000 research grants at universities, medical schools, and other research and training institutions, both nationally and internationally. The rosters of those who have conducted research or who have received NIH support over the years include the world’s most illustrious scientists and physicians. Among them are 97 scientists who have won the Nobel Prize for achievement in medicine.
5
Adapted from the NIH: http://www.nih.gov/about/NIHoverview.html.
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There is no guarantee that any one Institute will have a guideline on a specific disease, though the National Institutes of Health collectively publish over 600 guidelines for both common and rare diseases. The best way to access NIH guidelines is via the Internet. Although the NIH is organized into many different Institutes and Offices, the following is a list of key Web sites where you are most likely to find NIH clinical guidelines and publications dealing with toxoplasmosis and associated conditions: ·
Office of the Director (OD); guidelines consolidated across agencies available at http://www.nih.gov/health/consumer/conkey.htm
·
National Library of Medicine (NLM); extensive encyclopedia (A.D.A.M., Inc.) with guidelines available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html
·
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); guidelines available at http://www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/
·
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: various fact sheets on infectious diseases at http://www.cdc.gov/health/diseases.htm
Among the above, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is particularly noteworthy. The mission of the NIAID is to provide support for scientists conducting research aimed at developing better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent the many infectious, immunologic and allergic diseases that afflict people worldwide.6 The NIAID is composed of four extramural divisions: the Division of AIDS; the Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation; the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases; and the Division of Extramural Activities. In addition, NIAID scientists conduct intramural research in laboratories located in Bethesda, Rockville and Frederick, Maryland, and in Hamilton, Montana. The following patient guideline was recently published by the NIAID on toxoplasmosis.
What Is Toxoplasmosis?7 Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a single-celled parasite named Toxoplasma gondii. It is found throughout the world. More than 60 million people in the United States probably are infected with the Toxoplasma This paragraph has been adapted from the NIAID: http://www.niaid.nih.gov/facts/overview.htm. “Adapted” signifies that a passage has been reproduced exactly or slightly edited for this book. 7 Adapted from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm. 6
Guidelines 11
parasite, but very few have symptoms because the immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness.
How Can I Get Toxoplasmosis? ·
You can become infected after accidentally ingesting (swallowing) infective Toxoplasma eggs from soil or other contaminated surfaces. This can happen by putting your hands to your mouth after gardening, cleaning a cat’s litter box, or by touching anything that has come into contact with cat feces.
·
If you are pregnant when first infected with Toxoplasma, you can pass infection to your baby.
·
If you have eaten raw or partly cooked meat, especially pork, lamb, or venison, or if you have touched your hands to your mouth after touching the meat.
·
Through organ transplantation or transfusion, although these instances are rare.
What Are the Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis? You may feel like you have the “flu,” swollen lymph glands, or muscle aches and pains that last for a few days to several weeks. However, most people who become infected with toxoplasmosis don’t know it. On the other hand, people with immune system problems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, those taking certain types of chemotherapy, or persons who have recently received an organ transplant, and infants, may develop severe toxoplasmosis, which results in damage to the eye or the brain. Infants who became infected before birth can be born retarded or with several other serious mental or physical problems.
How Do I Know If I Have Toxoplasmosis? See your health care provider who will order a blood sample to be taken.
12 Toxoplasmosis
Who Is at Risk for Severe Toxoplasmosis? ·
Babies born to mothers who are FIRST exposed to Toxoplasma infection several months before or DURING pregnancy are at risk for severe disease. However, many exposed infants have no symptoms at all. Mothers who are first exposed to Toxoplasma more than 6 months before becoming pregnant are not likely to pass the infection to their children.
·
Persons with severely weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe toxoplasmosis. In such cases, an infection that occurred anytime during life can reactivate and cause the severe symptoms of toxoplasmosis such as damage to the eye or brain.
How Can I Prevent Toxoplasmosis? Because Toxoplasma infections usually cause no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and your immune system keeps any remaining parasites in your body from causing further symptoms, most people don’t need to worry about getting it. However, if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant, there are several steps you should take to prevent toxoplasmosis. ·
If you have a weakened immune system, get the blood test for Toxoplasma. If your test is positive, your doctor can tell you if and when you need to take medicine to prevent the infection from reactivating. If your test is negative, you can take precautions to avoid infection.
·
If you are planning on becoming pregnant, you may consider being tested for Toxoplasma. If the test is positive there is no need to worry about passing the infection to your baby. If the test is negative, take necessary precautions to avoid infection.
·
If you are already pregnant, you and your health care provider should discuss your risk of toxoplasmosis. Your health care provider may order a blood sample for testing.
·
Wear gloves when you garden or do anything outdoors that involves handling soil. Cats, who may pass the parasite in their feces, often use gardens and sandboxes as litter boxes. Wash your hands well with soap and warm water after outdoor activities, especially before you eat or prepare any food.
·
Have someone who is healthy and not pregnant handle raw meat for you. If this is not possible, wear clean latex gloves when you touch raw meat and wash any cutting boards, sinks, knives, and other utensils that
Guidelines 13
might have touched the raw meat. Wash your hands well with soap and warm water afterwards. ·
Cook all meat thoroughly, that is, until it is no longer pink in the center or until the juices run clear. Don’t sample meat before it is fully cooked.
Am I Able to Keep My Cat? Yes, but if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant there are some steps to take to avoid being exposed to Toxoplasma. ·
Help prevent your cat from getting infected with Toxoplasma. Keep cats indoors and feed them dry or canned cat food. Cats can become infected by eating or being fed raw or undercooked meat.
·
Don’t bring a new cat into your house that might have been an outdoor cat or might have been fed raw meat. Avoid handling stray cats and kittens. Your vet can answer any other questions you may have regarding your cat and risk for toxoplasmosis.
·
Have someone who is healthy and not pregnant change your cat’s litter box. If this is not possible, wear gloves and clean the litter box daily (the parasite found in cat feces can only infect you a few days after being passed). Wash your hands well with soap and warm water afterwards.
Will My Cat Always Spread the Infection? No. Cats can only spread Toxoplasma in their feces for a few weeks after they are first infected with the parasite. Like humans, cats rarely have symptoms when first infected, so most people don’t know if their cat has been exposed to Toxoplasma. There are no good tests available to determine if your cat is passing Toxoplasma in its feces.
What Is the Treatment for Toxoplasmosis? Once a diagnosis of toxoplasmosis is confirmed, you and your health care provider can discuss whether treatment is necessary. In an otherwise healthy person who is not pregnant, treatment is not needed. Symptoms will usually go away within a few weeks. For pregnant women or persons who have weakened immune systems, drugs are available to treat toxoplasmosis.
14 Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis: Technical Notes DPDx is a Web site developed and maintained by CDC’s Division of Parasitic Diseases (DPD). Their goal is to use the Internet to strengthen diagnosis of parasitic diseases, both in the United States and abroad. For that purpose, DPDx offers two complementary functions: (1) a reference and training function, in which all users can browse through concise reviews of parasites and parasitic diseases, including an image library and a review of recommended procedures for collecting, shipping, processing, and examining biologic specimens, and (2) a diagnostic assistance function, in which laboratorians and other health professionals desiring assistance in parasite identification can ask questions and/or send digital images of specimens for expedited review and consultation with DPD staff. The review below is adapted from a DPDx review of toxoplasmosis.8 As the information was prepared for healthcare professionals, some of the language is technical. Relevant terms are defined in the vocabulary builder at the end of this chapter.
Causal Agent Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that infects most species of warmblooded animals, including humans, causing the disease toxoplasmosis.
Life Cycle Members of the cat family (Felidae) are the only known definitive hosts for the sexual stages of T. gondii and thus are the main reservoirs of infection. Cats become infected with T. gondii by carnivorism. After tissue cysts or oocysts are ingested by the cat, viable organisms are released and invade epithelial cells of the small intestine where they undergo an asexual followed by a sexual cycle and then form oocysts, which are then excreted. The unsporulated oocyst takes 1 to 5 days after excretion to sporulate (become infective). Although cats shed oocysts for only 1 to 2 weeks, large numbers This paragraph is adapted from the DPDx: http://www.dpd.cdc.gov/dpdx/HTML/Toxoplasmosis.htm. The review of toxoplasmosis has been adapted from the DPDx Web site. Further treatment information in The Medical Letter (http://www.medletter.com/) is recommended in the DPDx. The section of “Diagnostic Findings” which provides diagnostic images and related information should be viewed separately at: http://www.dpd.cdc.gov/dpdx/HTML/Frames/SZ/Toxoplasmosis/body_Toxoplasmosis_mic1.htm.
8
Guidelines 15
may be shed. Oocysts can survive in the environment for several months and are remarkably resistant to disinfectants, freezing, and drying, but are killed by heating to 70°C for 10 minutes. Human infection may be acquired in several ways: A) Ingestion of undercooked infected meat containing Toxoplasma cysts; B) Ingestion of the oocyst from fecally contaminated hands or food; C) Organ transplantation or blood transfusion; D) Transplacental transmission; E) Accidental inoculation of tachyzoites. The parasites form tissue cysts, most commonly in skeletal muscle, myocardium, and brain; these cysts may remain throughout the life of the host.
16 Toxoplasmosis
Geographic Distribution Serologic prevalence data indicate that toxoplasmosis is one of the most common of humans infections throughout the world. Infection is more common in warm climates and at lower altitudes than in cold climates and mountainous regions. High prevalence of infection in France (85%) has been related to a preference for eating raw or undercooked meat, while high prevalence in Central America has been related to the frequency of stray cats in a climate favoring survival of oocysts. The overall seroprevalence in the United States as determined with specimens collected by the third National Health and Nutritional Assessment Survey (NHANES III) between 1988 and 1994 was found to be 22%, with seroprevalence among women of childbearing age (15 to 45 years) of 10% to 15%.
Guidelines 17
Clinical Features Acquired infection with Toxoplasma in immunocompetent persons is generally an asymptomatic infection. However, 10% to 20% of patients with acute infection may develop cervical lymphadenopathy and/or a flu-like illness. The clinical course is benign and self-limited; symptoms usually resolve within a few months to a year. Immunodeficient patients often have central nervous system (CNS) disease but may have chorioretinitis, or pneumonitis. In patients with AIDS, toxoplasmic encephalitis is the most common cause of intracerebral mass lesions and is thought to be caused by reactivation of chronic infection. Toxoplasmosis in patients being treated with immunosuppressive drugs may be due to either newly acquired or reactivated latent infection. Congenital toxoplasmosis results from an acute primary infection acquired by the mother during pregnancy. The incidence and severity of congenital toxoplasmosis vary with the trimester during which infection was acquired. Because treatment with leucovorin of the mother may reduce the incidence of congenital infection and reduce sequelae in the infant, prompt and accurate diagnosis is important. Most infants with subclinical infection at birth will subsequently develop signs or symptoms of congenital toxoplasmosis unless the infection is treated. Ocular Toxoplasma infection, an important cause of chorioretinitis in the United States, is frequently a result of congenital infection. Patients are often asymptomatic until the second or third decade of life, when lesions develop in the eye.
Laboratory Diagnosis The diagnosis of toxoplasmosis may be documented by: ·
Observation of parasites in patient specimens, such as bronchoalveolar lavage material from immunocompromised patients, or lymph node biopsy.
·
Isolation of parasites from blood or other body fluids, by intraperitoneal inoculation into mice or tissue culture. The mice should be tested for the presence of Toxoplasma organisms in the peritoneal fluid 6 to 10 days post inoculation; if no organisms are found, serology can be performed on the animals 4 to 6 weeks post inoculation.
·
Detection of parasite genetic material by PCR, especially in detecting congenital infections in utero.
18 Toxoplasmosis
·
Serologic testing is the routine method of diagnosis, because the techniques described above are technically complex and generally not rewarding.
Treatment Treatment is not needed for a healthy person who is not pregnant. Symptoms will usually go away within a few weeks. For pregnant women or persons who have weakened immune systems, pyrimethamine plus sulfadiazine with leucovorin are the drugs of choice.
For More Information ·
Frenkel JK. Toxoplasmosis in human beings. JAVMA 1990;196:240-8.
·
Frenkel JK, Dubey JP. Toxoplasmosis and its prevention in cats and man. J Infect Dis 1972;126:664-73.
·
Richards FO, Jr., Kovacs JA, Luft BJ. Preventing toxoplasmic encephalitis in persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus. Clin Infect Dis 1995;21(Suppl1):S49-56.
More Guideline Sources The guideline above on toxoplasmosis is only one example of the kind of material that you can find online and free of charge. The remainder of this chapter will direct you to other sources which either publish or can help you find additional guidelines on topics related to toxoplasmosis. Many of the guidelines listed below address topics that may be of particular relevance to your specific situation or of special interest to only some patients with toxoplasmosis. Due to space limitations these sources are listed in a concise manner. Do not hesitate to consult the following sources by either using the Internet hyperlink provided, or, in cases where the contact information is provided, contacting the publisher or author directly.
Topic Pages: MEDLINEplus For patients wishing to go beyond guidelines published by specific Institutes of the NIH, the National Library of Medicine has created a vast and patientoriented healthcare information portal called MEDLINEplus. Within this
Guidelines 19
Internet-based system are “health topic pages.” You can think of a health topic page as a guide to patient guides. To access this system, log on to http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html. From there you can either search using the alphabetical index or browse by broad topic areas. Recently, MEDLINEplus listed the following as being relevant to toxoplasmosis: ·
Guides On Toxoplasmosis Toxoplasmosis http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/toxoplasmosis.html Toxoplasmosis http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000637.htm
·
Guides on Human Anatomy and Systems Infections Topics http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/infections.html
·
Other Guides Congenital toxoplasmosis http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001360.htm AIDS and Infections http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/aidsandinfections.html Parasitic Diseases http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/parasiticdiseases.html Mental retardation http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001523.htm High Risk Pregnancy http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/highriskpregnancy.html AIDS http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000594.htm Uveitis http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001005.htm
Within the health topic page dedicated to toxoplasmosis, the following was recently recommended to patients:
20 Toxoplasmosis
·
General/Overviews Toxoplasmosis Source: National Center for Infectious Diseases, Division of Parasitic Diseases http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_ toxoplasmosis.htm
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Specific Conditions/Aspects Toxoplasmosis Source: March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation http://www.modimes.org/HealthLibrary/334_589.htm
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Children Toxoplasmosis Source: Nemours Foundation http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/parasitic/toxoplasmosis.ht ml%20%20
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From the National Institutes of Health Toxoplasmosis Source: Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction http://cerhr.niehs.nih.gov/genpub/topics/toxoplasmosis2-ccae.html
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Organizations National Center for Infectious Diseases, Division of Parasitic Diseases http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/default.htm National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases http://www.niaid.nih.gov/
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Prevention/Screening You Can Prevent Toxoplasmosis: A Guide for People with HIV Infection Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/pubs/brochure/oi_toxo.htm
If you do not find topics of interest when browsing health topic pages, then you can choose to use the advanced search utility of MEDLINEplus at the
Guidelines 21
following Web address: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/advancedsearch.html. This utility is similar to the NIH Search Utility, with the exception that it only includes material linked within the MEDLINEplus system (mostly patient-oriented information). It also has the disadvantage of generating unstructured results. We recommend, therefore, that you use this method only if you have a very targeted search. The Combined Health Information Database (CHID) CHID Online is a reference tool that maintains a database directory of thousands of journal articles and patient education guidelines on toxoplasmosis and related conditions. One of the advantages of CHID over other sources is that it offers summaries that describe the guidelines available, including contact information and pricing. CHID’s general Web site is http://chid.nih.gov/. To search this database, go to http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. In particular, you can use the advanced search options to look up pamphlets, reports, brochures, and information kits. The following was recently posted in this archive: ·
Toxoplasmosis: What You Need to Know Contact: Research and Education Group, Community Program for Clinical Research on AIDS, 2701 NW Vaughn Ste 840, Portland, OR, 97210, (503) 229-8428, http://www.reg.org. Summary: This pamphlet describes the symptoms, treatment, and course of toxoplasmosis (toxo). In people infected with HIV in the U.S., toxoplasmosis is the leading cause of encephalitis. Humans most commonly become infected by eating raw or uncooked meat, or through exposure to contact with infected cat feces. The common symptoms are confusion, headaches, and fever. The importance of early diagnosis and treatment is emphasized.
·
Info Plus: La Toxoplasmose Prevention Traitement.. [Info Plus: Prevention and Treatment of Toxoplasmosis.] Contact: AIDES Federation Nationale, 247 Rue de Belleville, Paris. Summary: This pamphlet describes the epidemiology, prevention, and treatment of toxoplasmosis, a common parasitic infection. Though this opportunistic infection rarely causes symptoms in healthy populations, it seriously affects about 25 percent of AIDS patients. Symptoms include vague confusion, headaches, fever, convulsions, tremors, speech problems, and even loss of conscience. As a preventative measure,
22 Toxoplasmosis
persons with AIDS should wash their hands after handling cats and cat litter, wash and peel fruits and vegetables, and cook meats thoroughly. Persons with a low T4 count may be given medication to prevent the recurrence of an earlier toxoplasmosis infection. Treatment usually involves a stay in the hospital and a variety of drugs (including folic acid, cortisone, and AZT), some of which are still at an experimental stage. After the infection has subsided, AIDS patients should be maintained on low doses of medication to prevent a relapse. ·
Toxoplasmosis Contact: US Government Printing Office, PO Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA, 15250-7954, (202) 512-1800, http://www.access.gpo.gov. Summary: This brochure describes toxoplasmosis: its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, transmission, prevention, and research.
The National Guideline Clearinghouse™ The National Guideline Clearinghouse™ offers hundreds of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines published in the United States and other countries. You can search their site located at http://www.guideline.gov by using the keyword “toxoplasmosis” or synonyms. The following was recently posted: ·
ACR Appropriateness Criteria™ for progressive neurologic deficit. Source: American College of Radiology.; 1996 (revised 1999); 21 pages http://www.guideline.gov/FRAMESETS/guideline_fs.asp?guideline=00 1664&sSearch_string=toxoplasmosis
·
Control and prevention of rubella: evaluation and management of suspected outbreaks, rubella in pregnant women, and surveillance for congenital rubella syndrome. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.; 2001 July; 24 pages http://www.guideline.gov/FRAMESETS/guideline_fs.asp?guideline=00 2100&sSearch_string=toxoplasmosis
Guidelines 23
·
Diagnosis and management of foodborne illnesses: a primer for physicians. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American Medical Association/Food Safety and Inspection Service/Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.; Reprint released 2001 January; 88 pages http://www.guideline.gov/FRAMESETS/guideline_fs.asp?guideline=00 1933&sSearch_string=toxoplasmosis
·
Joint Committee on Infant Hearing. Year 2000 position statement. Principles and guidelines for early hearing detection and intervention programs. Source: Joint Committee on Infant Hearing.; 2000 June; 21 pages http://www.guideline.gov/FRAMESETS/guideline_fs.asp?guideline=00 1848&sSearch_string=toxoplasmosis
·
Newborn hearing screening: recommendations and rationale. Source: United States Preventive Services Task Force.; 2001; 9 pages http://www.guideline.gov/FRAMESETS/guideline_fs.asp?guideline=00 2205&sSearch_string=toxoplasmosis
Healthfinder™ Healthfinder™ is an additional source sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services which offers links to hundreds of other sites that contain healthcare information. This Web site is located at http://www.healthfinder.gov. Again, keyword searches can be used to find guidelines. The following was recently found in this database: ·
You Can Prevent Toxo: A Guide for People with HIV Infection Summary: This online document provides specific details about the parasitic disease toxoplasmosis including symptoms and diagnosis; treatment; and prevention specific to the individual with HIV infection. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services http://www.healthfinder.gov/scripts/recordpass.asp?RecordType=0&R ecordID=2013
24 Toxoplasmosis
The NIH Search Utility After browsing the references listed at the beginning of this chapter, you may want to explore the NIH Search Utility. This allows you to search for documents on over 100 selected Web sites that comprise the NIH-WEBSPACE. Each of these servers is “crawled” and indexed on an ongoing basis. Your search will produce a list of various documents, all of which will relate in some way to toxoplasmosis. The drawbacks of this approach are that the information is not organized by theme and that the references are often a mix of information for professionals and patients. Nevertheless, a large number of the listed Web sites provide useful background information. We can only recommend this route, therefore, for relatively rare or specific disorders, or when using highly targeted searches. To use the NIH search utility, visit the following Web page: http://search.nih.gov/index.html.
NORD (The National Organization of Rare Disorders, Inc.) NORD provides an invaluable service to the public by publishing, for a nominal fee, short yet comprehensive guidelines on over 1,000 diseases. NORD primarily focuses on rare diseases that might not be covered by the previously listed sources. NORD’s Web address is www.rarediseases.org. To see if a recent fact sheet has been published on toxoplasmosis, simply go to the following hyperlink: http://www.rarediseases.org/cgibin/nord/alphalist. A complete guide on toxoplasmosis can be purchased from NORD for a nominal fee. Additional Web Sources A number of Web sites that often link to government sites are available to the public. These can also point you in the direction of essential information. The following is a representative sample: ·
AOL: http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=168&layer=&from=subcats
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drkoop.comÒ: http://www.drkoop.com/conditions/ency/index.html
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Family Village: http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/specific.htm
·
Google: http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/
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Med Help International: http://www.medhelp.org/HealthTopics/A.html
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Open Directory Project: http://dmoz.org/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/
Guidelines 25
·
Yahoo.com: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/
·
WebMDÒHealth: http://my.webmd.com/health_topics
Vocabulary Builder The material in this chapter may have contained a number of unfamiliar words. The following Vocabulary Builder introduces you to terms used in this chapter that have not been covered in the previous chapter: Antibody: An immunoglobulin molecule that has a specific amino acid sequence by virtue of which it interacts only with the antigen that induced its synthesis in cells of the lymphoid series (especially plasma cells), or with antigen closely related to it. Antibodies are classified according to their ode of action as agglutinins, bacteriolysins, haemolysins, opsonins, precipitins, etc. [EU] Asymptomatic: Showing or causing no symptoms. [EU] Benign: Not malignant; not recurrent; favourable for recovery. [EU] Biopsy: The removal and examination, usually microscopic, of tissue from the living body, performed to establish precise diagnosis. [EU] Causal: Pertaining to a cause; directed against a cause. [EU] Cervical: Pertaining to the neck, or to the neck of any organ or structure. [EU] Chemotherapy: The treatment of disease by means of chemicals that have a specific toxic effect upon the disease - producing microorganisms or that selectively destroy cancerous tissue. [EU] Chorioretinitis: Inflammation of the choroid in which the sensory retina becomes edematous and opaque. The inflammatory cells and exudate may burst through the sensory retina to cloud the vitreous body. [NIH] Chronic: Persisting over a long period of time. [EU] Confusion: Disturbed orientation in regard to time, place, or person, sometimes accompanied by disordered consciousness. [EU] Convulsion: A violent involuntary contraction or series of contractions of the voluntary muscles. [EU] Cyst: Any closed cavity or sac; normal or abnormal, lined by epithelium, and especially one that contains a liquid or semisolid material. [EU] Cytomegalovirus: A genus of the family herpesviridae, subfamily betaherpesvirinae, infecting the salivary glands, liver, spleen, lungs, eyes, and other organs, in which they produce characteristically enlarged cells with intranuclear inclusions. Infection with Cytomegalovirus is also seen as
26 Toxoplasmosis
an opportunistic infection in AIDS. [NIH] Disinfectant: An agent that disinfects; applied particularly to agents used on inanimate objects. [EU] Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain. [EU] Encephalopathy: Any degenerative disease of the brain. [EU] Feces: The excrement discharged from the intestines, consisting of bacteria, cells exfoliated from the intestines, secretions, chiefly of the liver, and a small amount of food residue. [EU] Ingestion: The act of taking food, medicines, etc., into the body, by mouth. [EU]
Lesion: Any pathological or traumatic discontinuity of tissue or loss of function of a part. [EU] Leucovorin: The active metabolite of folic acid. Leucovorin is used principally as its calcium salt as an antidote to folic acid antagonists which block the conversion of folic acid to folinic acid. [NIH] Lymphadenopathy: Disease of the lymph nodes. [EU] Lymphoma: Any neoplastic disorder of the lymphoid tissue, the term lymphoma often is used alone to denote malignant lymphoma. [EU] Mental: Pertaining to the mind; psychic. 2. (L. mentum chin) pertaining to the chin. [EU] Microbiology: The study of microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, algae, archaea, and viruses. [NIH] Myocardium: The muscle tissue of the heart composed of striated, involuntary muscle known as cardiac muscle. [NIH] Nausea: An unpleasant sensation, vaguely referred to the epigastrium and abdomen, and often culminating in vomiting. [EU] Neoplastic: Pertaining to or like a neoplasm (= any new and abnormal growth); pertaining to neoplasia (= the formation of a neoplasm). [EU] Neurologic: Pertaining to neurology or to the nervous system. [EU] Neurology: A medical specialty concerned with the study of the structures, functions, and diseases of the nervous system. [NIH] Ocular: 1. of, pertaining to, or affecting the eye. 2. eyepiece. [EU] Papillomavirus: A genus of papovaviridae causing proliferation of the epithelium, which may lead to malignancy. A wide range of animals are infected including humans, chimpanzees, cattle, rabbits, dogs, and horses. [NIH]
Parasitic: Pertaining to, of the nature of, or caused by a parasite. [EU] Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs with consolidation. [EU]
Guidelines 27
Prevalence: The total number of cases of a given disease in a specified population at a designated time. It is differentiated from incidence, which refers to the number of new cases in the population at a given time. [NIH] Progressive: Advancing; going forward; going from bad to worse; increasing in scope or severity. [EU] Protozoan: 1. any individual of the protozoa; protozoon. 2. of or pertaining to the protozoa; protozoal. [EU] Radiology: A specialty concerned with the use of x-ray and other forms of radiant energy in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. [NIH] Reactivation: The restoration of activity to something that has been inactivated. [EU] Recurrence: The return of a sign, symptom, or disease after a remission. [NIH] Rubella: An acute, usually benign, infectious disease caused by a togavirus and most often affecting children and nonimmune young adults, in which the virus enters the respiratory tract via droplet nuclei and spreads to the lymphatic system. It is characterized by a slight cold, sore throat, and fever, followed by enlargement of the postauricular, suboccipital, and cervical lymph nodes, and the appearances of a fine pink rash that begins on the head and spreads to become generalized. Called also German measles, roetln, röteln, and three-day measles, and rubeola in French and Spanish. [EU] Sarcoma: A tumour made up of a substance like the embryonic connective tissue; tissue composed of closely packed cells embedded in a fibrillar or homogeneous substance. Sarcomas are often highly malignant. [EU] Seizures: Clinical or subclinical disturbances of cortical function due to a sudden, abnormal, excessive, and disorganized discharge of brain cells. Clinical manifestations include abnormal motor, sensory and psychic phenomena. Recurrent seizures are usually referred to as epilepsy or "seizure disorder." [NIH] Serology: The study of serum, especially of antigen-antibody reactions in vitro. [NIH] Skeletal: Pertaining to the skeleton. [EU] Species: A taxonomic category subordinate to a genus (or subgenus) and superior to a subspecies or variety, composed of individuals possessing common characters distinguishing them from other categories of individuals of the same taxonomic level. In taxonomic nomenclature, species are designated by the genus name followed by a Latin or Latinized adjective or noun. [EU] Subclinical: Without clinical manifestations; said of the early stage(s) of an infection or other disease or abnormality before symptoms and signs become apparent or detectable by clinical examination or laboratory tests, or of a
28 Toxoplasmosis
very mild form of an infection or other disease or abnormality. [EU] Sulfadiazine: A short-acting sulfonamide used in combination with pyrimethamine to treat toxoplasmosis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and in newborns with congenital infections. [NIH]
Toxoplasma: A genus of protozoa parasitic to birds and mammals. T. gondii is one of the most common infectious pathogenic animal parasites of man. [NIH]
Toxoplasmosis: An acute or chronic, widespread disease of animals and humans caused by the obligate intracellular protozoon Toxoplasma gondii, transmitted by oocysts containing the pathogen in the feces of cats (the definitive host), usually by contaminated soil, direct exposure to infected feces, tissue cysts in infected meat, or tachyzoites (proliferating forms) in blood. [EU] Transfusion: The introduction of whole blood or blood component directly into the blood stream. [EU] Transplantation: The grafting of tissues taken from the patient's own body or from another. [EU] Tremor: An involuntary trembling or quivering. [EU] Tuberculosis: Any of the infectious diseases of man and other animals caused by species of mycobacterium. [NIH] Uveitis: An inflammation of part or all of the uvea, the middle (vascular) tunic of the eye, and commonly involving the other tunics (the sclera and cornea, and the retina). [EU]
Seeking Guidance 29
CHAPTER 2. SEEKING GUIDANCE Overview Some patients are comforted by the knowledge that a number of organizations dedicate their resources to helping people with toxoplasmosis. These associations can become invaluable sources of information and advice. Many associations offer aftercare support, financial assistance, and other important services. Furthermore, healthcare research has shown that support groups often help people to better cope with their conditions.9 In addition to support groups, your physician can be a valuable source of guidance and support. Therefore, finding a physician that can work with your unique situation is a very important aspect of your care. In this chapter, we direct you to resources that can help you find patient organizations and medical specialists. We begin by describing how to find associations and peer groups that can help you better understand and cope with toxoplasmosis. The chapter ends with a discussion on how to find a doctor that is right for you.
Associations and Toxoplasmosis As mentioned by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, sometimes the emotional side of an illness can be as taxing as the physical side.10 You may have fears or feel overwhelmed by your situation. Everyone has different ways of dealing with disease or physical injury. Your attitude, your expectations, and how well you cope with your condition can all Churches, synagogues, and other houses of worship might also have groups that can offer you the social support you need. 10 This section has been adapted from http://www.ahcpr.gov/consumer/diaginf5.htm. 9
30 Toxoplasmosis
influence your well-being. This is true for both minor conditions and serious illnesses. For example, a study on female breast cancer survivors revealed that women who participated in support groups lived longer and experienced better quality of life when compared with women who did not participate. In the support group, women learned coping skills and had the opportunity to share their feelings with other women in the same situation. In addition to associations or groups that your doctor might recommend, we suggest that you consider the following list (if there is a fee for an association, you may want to check with your insurance provider to find out if the cost will be covered): ·
The Arc (a national organization on mental retardation) Address: The Arc (a national organization on mental retardation) 500 East Border Street, Suite 300, Arlington, TX 76010 Telephone: (817) 261-6003 Toll-free: (800) 433-5255 Fax: (817) 277-3491 Email:
[email protected] Web Site: http://thearc.org/ Background: The Arc is the largest organization in the United States that is solely devoted to improving the lives of all children and adults with mental retardation. The organization offers support to families affected by mental retardation and fosters research and educational programs on the prevention of mental retardation. The Arc is committed to securing opportunities for all people with mental retardation. To this end, the organization emphasizes personal opportunities for choice in education, housing, employment, and entertainment. The Arc is further committed to reducing the incidence and limiting the consequences of mental retardation through research, advocacy, and mutual support. The Arc provides leadership in the field of mental retardation and develops necessary human and financial resources to attain its goals. In addition, the Arc provides a wide variety of educational materials for parents, teachers, health care professionals, and others, including a regular newsletter, handbooks, instruction packets, reports, booklets, audiovisual aids, posters, and brochures. Many materials are available in Spanish. Relevant area(s) of interest: Toxoplasmosis
Seeking Guidance 31
Finding More Associations There are a number of directories that list additional medical associations that you may find useful. While not all of these directories will provide different information than what is listed above, by consulting all of them, you will have nearly exhausted all sources for patient associations.
The National Health Information Center (NHIC) The National Health Information Center (NHIC) offers a free referral service to help people find organizations that provide information about toxoplasmosis. For more information, see the NHIC’s Web site at http://www.health.gov/NHIC/ or contact an information specialist by calling 1-800-336-4797.
DIRLINE A comprehensive source of information on associations is the DIRLINE database maintained by the National Library of Medicine. The database comprises some 10,000 records of organizations, research centers, and government institutes and associations which primarily focus on health and biomedicine. DIRLINE is available via the Internet at the following Web site: http://dirline.nlm.nih.gov/. Simply type in “toxoplasmosis” (or a synonym) or the name of a topic, and the site will list information contained in the database on all relevant organizations.
The Combined Health Information Database Another comprehensive source of information on healthcare associations is the Combined Health Information Database. Using the “Detailed Search” option, you will need to limit your search to “Organizations” and “toxoplasmosis”. Type the following hyperlink into your Web browser: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find associations, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” For publication date, select “All Years.” Then, select your preferred language and the format option “Organization Resource Sheet.” By making these selections and typing in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box, you will only receive results on organizations dealing with toxoplasmosis. You should check back periodically with this database since it is updated every 3 months.
32 Toxoplasmosis
The National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. The National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. has prepared a Web site that provides, at no charge, lists of associations organized by specific diseases. You can access this database at the following Web site: http://www.rarediseases.org/cgi-bin/nord/searchpage. Select the option called “Organizational Database (ODB)” and type “toxoplasmosis” (or a synonym) in the search box.
Online Support Groups In addition to support groups, commercial Internet service providers offer forums and chat rooms for people with different illnesses and conditions. WebMDÒ, for example, offers such a service at their Web site: http://boards.webmd.com/roundtable. These online self-help communities can help you connect with a network of people whose concerns are similar to yours. Online support groups are places where people can talk informally. If you read about a novel approach, consult with your doctor or other healthcare providers, as the treatments or discoveries you hear about may not be scientifically proven to be safe and effective.
Finding Doctors One of the most important aspects of your treatment will be the relationship between you and your doctor or specialist. All patients with toxoplasmosis must go through the process of selecting a physician. While this process will vary from person to person, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality makes a number of suggestions, including the following:11 ·
If you are in a managed care plan, check the plan’s list of doctors first.
·
Ask doctors or other health professionals who work with doctors, such as hospital nurses, for referrals.
·
Call a hospital’s doctor referral service, but keep in mind that these services usually refer you to doctors on staff at that particular hospital. The services do not have information on the quality of care that these doctors provide.
11
This section is adapted from the AHRQ: www.ahrq.gov/consumer/qntascii/qntdr.htm.
Seeking Guidance 33
·
Some local medical societies offer lists of member doctors. Again, these lists do not have information on the quality of care that these doctors provide.
Additional steps you can take to locate doctors include the following: ·
Check with the associations listed earlier in this chapter.
·
Information on doctors in some states is available on the Internet at http://www.docboard.org. This Web site is run by “Administrators in Medicine,” a group of state medical board directors.
·
The American Board of Medical Specialties can tell you if your doctor is board certified. “Certified” means that the doctor has completed a training program in a specialty and has passed an exam, or “board,” to assess his or her knowledge, skills, and experience to provide quality patient care in that specialty. Primary care doctors may also be certified as specialists. The AMBS Web site is located at http://www.abms.org/newsearch.asp.12 You can also contact the ABMS by phone at 1-866-ASK-ABMS.
·
You can call the American Medical Association (AMA) at 800-665-2882 for information on training, specialties, and board certification for many licensed doctors in the United States. This information also can be found in “Physician Select” at the AMA’s Web site: http://www.amaassn.org/aps/amahg.htm.
If the previous sources did not meet your needs, you may want to log on to the Web site of the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) at http://www.rarediseases.org/. NORD maintains a database of doctors with expertise in various rare diseases. The Metabolic Information Network (MIN), 800-945-2188, also maintains a database of physicians with expertise in various metabolic diseases.
While board certification is a good measure of a doctor’s knowledge, it is possible to receive quality care from doctors who are not board certified.
12
34 Toxoplasmosis
Selecting Your Doctor13 When you have compiled a list of prospective doctors, call each of their offices. First, ask if the doctor accepts your health insurance plan and if he or she is taking new patients. If the doctor is not covered by your plan, ask yourself if you are prepared to pay the extra costs. The next step is to schedule a visit with your chosen physician. During the first visit you will have the opportunity to evaluate your doctor and to find out if you feel comfortable with him or her. Ask yourself, did the doctor: ·
Give me a chance to ask questions about toxoplasmosis?
·
Really listen to my questions?
·
Answer in terms I understood?
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Show respect for me?
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Ask me questions?
·
Make me feel comfortable?
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Address the health problem(s) I came with?
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Ask me my preferences about different kinds of treatments for toxoplasmosis?
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Spend enough time with me?
Trust your instincts when deciding if the doctor is right for you. But remember, it might take time for the relationship to develop. It takes more than one visit for you and your doctor to get to know each other.
Working with Your Doctor14 Research has shown that patients who have good relationships with their doctors tend to be more satisfied with their care and have better results. Here are some tips to help you and your doctor become partners: ·
You know important things about your symptoms and your health history. Tell your doctor what you think he or she needs to know.
·
It is important to tell your doctor personal information, even if it makes you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
13 This
section has been adapted from the AHRQ: www.ahrq.gov/consumer/qntascii/qntdr.htm. 14 This section has been adapted from the AHRQ: www.ahrq.gov/consumer/qntascii/qntdr.htm.
Seeking Guidance 35
·
Bring a “health history” list with you (and keep it up to date).
·
Always bring any medications you are currently taking with you to the appointment, or you can bring a list of your medications including dosage and frequency information. Talk about any allergies or reactions you have had to your medications.
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Tell your doctor about any natural or alternative medicines you are taking.
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Bring other medical information, such as x-ray films, test results, and medical records.
·
Ask questions. If you don’t, your doctor will assume that you understood everything that was said.
·
Write down your questions before your visit. List the most important ones first to make sure that they are addressed.
·
Consider bringing a friend with you to the appointment to help you ask questions. This person can also help you understand and/or remember the answers.
·
Ask your doctor to draw pictures if you think that this would help you understand.
·
Take notes. Some doctors do not mind if you bring a tape recorder to help you remember things, but always ask first.
·
Let your doctor know if you need more time. If there is not time that day, perhaps you can speak to a nurse or physician assistant on staff or schedule a telephone appointment.
·
Take information home. Ask for written instructions. Your doctor may also have brochures and audio and videotapes that can help you.
·
After leaving the doctor’s office, take responsibility for your care. If you have questions, call. If your symptoms get worse or if you have problems with your medication, call. If you had tests and do not hear from your doctor, call for your test results. If your doctor recommended that you have certain tests, schedule an appointment to get them done. If your doctor said you should see an additional specialist, make an appointment.
By following these steps, you will enhance the relationship you will have with your physician.
36 Toxoplasmosis
Broader Health-Related Resources In addition to the references above, the NIH has set up guidance Web sites that can help patients find healthcare professionals. These include:15 ·
Caregivers: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/caregivers.html
·
Choosing a Doctor or Healthcare Service: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/choosingadoctororhealthcareserv ice.html
·
Hospitals and Health Facilities: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthfacilities.html
You can access this information at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthsystem.html.
15
Clinical Trials 37
CHAPTER 3. CLINICAL TRIALS AND TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview Very few medical conditions have a single treatment. The basic treatment guidelines that your physician has discussed with you, or those that you have found using the techniques discussed in Chapter 1, may provide you with all that you will require. For some patients, current treatments can be enhanced with new or innovative techniques currently under investigation. In this chapter, we will describe how clinical trials work and show you how to keep informed of trials concerning toxoplasmosis.
What Is a Clinical Trial?16 Clinical trials involve the participation of people in medical research. Most medical research begins with studies in test tubes and on animals. Treatments that show promise in these early studies may then be tried with people. The only sure way to find out whether a new treatment is safe, effective, and better than other treatments for toxoplasmosis is to try it on patients in a clinical trial.
The discussion in this chapter has been adapted from the NIH and the NEI: www.nei.nih.gov/netrials/ctivr.htm.
16
38 Toxoplasmosis
What Kinds of Clinical Trials Are There? Clinical trials are carried out in three phases: ·
Phase I. Researchers first conduct Phase I trials with small numbers of patients and healthy volunteers. If the new treatment is a medication, researchers also try to determine how much of it can be given safely.
·
Phase II. Researchers conduct Phase II trials in small numbers of patients to find out the effect of a new treatment on toxoplasmosis.
·
Phase III. Finally, researchers conduct Phase III trials to find out how new treatments for toxoplasmosis compare with standard treatments already being used. Phase III trials also help to determine if new treatments have any side effects. These trials--which may involve hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people--can also compare new treatments with no treatment. How Is a Clinical Trial Conducted?
Various organizations support clinical trials at medical centers, hospitals, universities, and doctors’ offices across the United States. The “principal investigator” is the researcher in charge of the study at each facility participating in the clinical trial. Most clinical trial researchers are medical doctors, academic researchers, and specialists. The “clinic coordinator” knows all about how the study works and makes all the arrangements for your visits. All doctors and researchers who take part in the study on toxoplasmosis carefully follow a detailed treatment plan called a protocol. This plan fully explains how the doctors will treat you in the study. The “protocol” ensures that all patients are treated in the same way, no matter where they receive care. Clinical trials are controlled. This means that researchers compare the effects of the new treatment with those of the standard treatment. In some cases, when no standard treatment exists, the new treatment is compared with no treatment. Patients who receive the new treatment are in the treatment group. Patients who receive a standard treatment or no treatment are in the “control” group. In some clinical trials, patients in the treatment group get a new medication while those in the control group get a placebo. A placebo is a harmless substance, a “dummy” pill, that has no effect on toxoplasmosis. In other clinical trials, where a new surgery or device (not a medicine) is being tested, patients in the control group may receive a “sham treatment.”
Clinical Trials 39
This treatment, like a placebo, has no effect on toxoplasmosis and does not harm patients. Researchers assign patients “randomly” to the treatment or control group. This is like flipping a coin to decide which patients are in each group. If you choose to participate in a clinical trial, you will not know which group you will be appointed to. The chance of any patient getting the new treatment is about 50 percent. You cannot request to receive the new treatment instead of the placebo or sham treatment. Often, you will not know until the study is over whether you have been in the treatment group or the control group. This is called a “masked” study. In some trials, neither doctors nor patients know who is getting which treatment. This is called a “double masked” study. These types of trials help to ensure that the perceptions of the patients or doctors will not affect the study results. Natural History Studies Unlike clinical trials in which patient volunteers may receive new treatments, natural history studies provide important information to researchers on how toxoplasmosis develops over time. A natural history study follows patient volunteers to see how factors such as age, sex, race, or family history might make some people more or less at risk for toxoplasmosis. A natural history study may also tell researchers if diet, lifestyle, or occupation affects how a disease or disorder develops and progresses. Results from these studies provide information that helps answer questions such as: How fast will a disease or disorder usually progress? How bad will the condition become? Will treatment be needed? What Is Expected of Patients in a Clinical Trial? Not everyone can take part in a clinical trial for a specific disease or disorder. Each study enrolls patients with certain features or eligibility criteria. These criteria may include the type and stage of disease or disorder, as well as, the age and previous treatment history of the patient. You or your doctor can contact the sponsoring organization to find out more about specific clinical trials and their eligibility criteria. If you are interested in joining a clinical trial, your doctor must contact one of the trial’s investigators and provide details about your diagnosis and medical history. If you participate in a clinical trial, you may be required to have a number of medical tests. You may also need to take medications and/or undergo
40 Toxoplasmosis
surgery. Depending upon the treatment and the examination procedure, you may be required to receive inpatient hospital care. Or, you may have to return to the medical facility for follow-up examinations. These exams help find out how well the treatment is working. Follow-up studies can take months or years. However, the success of the clinical trial often depends on learning what happens to patients over a long period of time. Only patients who continue to return for follow-up examinations can provide this important long-term information.
Recent Trials on Toxoplasmosis The National Institutes of Health and other organizations sponsor trials on various diseases and disorders. Because funding for research goes to the medical areas that show promising research opportunities, it is not possible for the NIH or others to sponsor clinical trials for every disease and disorder at all times. The following lists recent trials dedicated to toxoplasmosis.17 If the trial listed by the NIH is still recruiting, you may be eligible. If it is no longer recruiting or has been completed, then you can contact the sponsors to learn more about the study and, if published, the results. Further information on the trial is available at the Web site indicated. Please note that some trials may no longer be recruiting patients or are otherwise closed. Before contacting sponsors of a clinical trial, consult with your physician who can help you determine if you might benefit from participation. ·
Pyrimethamine, Sulfadiazine, and Leucovorin in Treating Patients With Congenital Toxoplasmosis Condition(s): Toxoplasmosis Study Status: This study is currently recruiting patients. Sponsor(s): National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); University of Chicago Purpose - Excerpt: Congenital toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasitic organism Toxoplasma gondii, and may be passed from an infected mother to her unborn child. The mother may have mild symptoms or no symptoms; the fetus, however, may experience damage to the eyes, nervous system, skin, and ears. The newborn may have a low birth weight, enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice, anemia, petechiae, and eye damage. Giving the antiparasitic drugs pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine is standard treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis, but it is not yet known which regimen of pyrimethamine is most effective for the disease. PURPOSE: Randomized phase II trial to determine which
17
These are listed at www.ClinicalTrials.gov.
Clinical Trials 41
regimen of pyrimethamine is most effective when combined with sulfadiazine and leucovorin in treating patients who have congenital toxoplasmosis. Phase(s): Phase II Study Type: Interventional Contact(s): Illinois; University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States; Recruiting; Rima McLeod 773-834-4152. Study chairs or principal investigators: Rima McLeod, Study Chair; University of Chicago Web Site: http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/gui/show/NCT00004317;jsessionid=4153550 780356096593179E07380A203
Benefits and Risks18 What Are the Benefits of Participating in a Clinical Trial? If you are interested in a clinical trial, it is important to realize that your participation can bring many benefits to you and society at large: ·
A new treatment could be more effective than the current treatment for toxoplasmosis. Although only half of the participants in a clinical trial receive the experimental treatment, if the new treatment is proved to be more effective and safer than the current treatment, then those patients who did not receive the new treatment during the clinical trial may be among the first to benefit from it when the study is over.
·
If the treatment is effective, then it may improve health or prevent diseases or disorders.
·
Clinical trial patients receive the highest quality of medical care. Experts watch them closely during the study and may continue to follow them after the study is over.
·
People who take part in trials contribute to scientific discoveries that may help other people with toxoplasmosis. In cases where certain diseases or disorders run in families, your participation may lead to better care or prevention for your family members.
This section has been adapted from ClinicalTrials.gov, a service of the National Institutes of Health: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/gui/c/a1r/info/whatis?JServSessionIdzone_ct=9jmun6f291.
18
42 Toxoplasmosis
The Informed Consent Once you agree to take part in a clinical trial, you will be asked to sign an “informed consent.” This document explains a clinical trial’s risks and benefits, the researcher’s expectations of you, and your rights as a patient. What Are the Risks? Clinical trials may involve risks as well as benefits. Whether or not a new treatment will work cannot be known ahead of time. There is always a chance that a new treatment may not work better than a standard treatment. There is also the possibility that it may be harmful. The treatment you receive may cause side effects that are serious enough to require medical attention. How Is Patient Safety Protected? Clinical trials can raise fears of the unknown. Understanding the safeguards that protect patients can ease some of these fears. Before a clinical trial begins, researchers must get approval from their hospital’s Institutional Review Board (IRB), an advisory group that makes sure a clinical trial is designed to protect patient safety. During a clinical trial, doctors will closely watch you to see if the treatment is working and if you are experiencing any side effects. All the results are carefully recorded and reviewed. In many cases, experts from the Data and Safety Monitoring Committee carefully monitor each clinical trial and can recommend that a study be stopped at any time. You will only be asked to take part in a clinical trial as a volunteer giving informed consent.
What Are a Patient’s Rights in a Clinical Trial? If you are eligible for a clinical trial, you will be given information to help you decide whether or not you want to participate. As a patient, you have the right to: ·
Information on all known risks and benefits of the treatments in the study.
·
Know how the researchers plan to carry out the study, for how long, and where.
·
Know what is expected of you.
Clinical Trials 43
·
Know any costs involved for you or your insurance provider.
·
Know before any of your medical or personal information is shared with other researchers involved in the clinical trial.
·
Talk openly with doctors and ask any questions.
After you join a clinical trial, you have the right to: ·
Leave the study at any time. Participation is strictly voluntary. However, you should not enroll if you do not plan to complete the study.
·
Receive any new information about the new treatment.
·
Continue to ask questions and get answers.
·
Maintain your privacy. Your name will not appear in any reports based on the study.
·
Know whether you participated in the treatment group or the control group (once the study has been completed).
What about Costs? In some clinical trials, the research facility pays for treatment costs and other associated expenses. You or your insurance provider may have to pay for costs that are considered standard care. These things may include inpatient hospital care, laboratory and other tests, and medical procedures. You also may need to pay for travel between your home and the clinic. You should find out about costs before committing to participation in the trial. If you have health insurance, find out exactly what it will cover. If you don’t have health insurance, or if your insurance company will not cover your costs, talk to the clinic staff about other options for covering the cost of your care. What Should You Ask before Deciding to Join a Clinical Trial? Questions you should ask when thinking about joining a clinical trial include the following: ·
What is the purpose of the clinical trial?
·
What are the standard treatments for toxoplasmosis? Why do researchers think the new treatment may be better? What is likely to happen to me with or without the new treatment?
·
What tests and treatments will I need? Will I need surgery? Medication? Hospitalization?
44 Toxoplasmosis
·
How long will the treatment last? How often will I have to come back for follow-up exams?
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What are the treatment’s possible benefits to my condition? What are the short- and long-term risks? What are the possible side effects?
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Will the treatment be uncomfortable? Will it make me feel sick? If so, for how long?
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How will my health be monitored?
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Where will I need to go for the clinical trial? How will I get there?
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How much will it cost to be in the study? What costs are covered by the study? How much will my health insurance cover?
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Will I be able to see my own doctor? Who will be in charge of my care?
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Will taking part in the study affect my daily life? Do I have time to participate?
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How do I feel about taking part in a clinical trial? Are there family members or friends who may benefit from my contributions to new medical knowledge?
Keeping Current on Clinical Trials Various government agencies maintain databases on trials. The U.S. National Institutes of Health, through the National Library of Medicine, has developed ClinicalTrials.gov to provide patients, family members, and physicians with current information about clinical research across the broadest number of diseases and conditions. The site was launched in February 2000 and currently contains approximately 5,700 clinical studies in over 59,000 locations worldwide, with most studies being conducted in the United States. ClinicalTrials.gov receives about 2 million hits per month and hosts approximately 5,400 visitors daily. To access this database, simply go to their Web site (www.clinicaltrials.gov) and search by “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms).
Clinical Trials 45
While ClinicalTrials.gov is the most comprehensive listing of NIH-supported clinical trials available, not all trials are in the database. The database is updated regularly, so clinical trials are continually being added. The following is a list of specialty databases affiliated with the National Institutes of Health that offer additional information on trials: ·
For clinical studies at the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center located in Bethesda, Maryland, visit their Web site: http://clinicalstudies.info.nih.gov/
·
For clinical studies conducted at the Bayview Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, visit their Web site: http://www.jhbmc.jhu.edu/studies/index.html
·
For trials on infectious, immune, and allergic diseases, visit the site of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: http://www.niaid.nih.gov/clintrials/
General References The following references describe clinical trials and experimental medical research. They have been selected to ensure that they are likely to be available from your local or online bookseller or university medical library. These references are usually written for healthcare professionals, so you may consider consulting with a librarian or bookseller who might recommend a particular reference. The following includes some of the most readily available references (sorted alphabetically by title; hyperlinks provide rankings, information and reviews at Amazon.com): ·
A Guide to Patient Recruitment : Today’s Best Practices & Proven Strategies by Diana L. Anderson; Paperback - 350 pages (2001), CenterWatch, Inc.; ISBN: 1930624115; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1930624115/icongroupinterna
·
A Step-By-Step Guide to Clinical Trials by Marilyn Mulay, R.N., M.S., OCN; Spiral-bound - 143 pages Spiral edition (2001), Jones & Bartlett Pub; ISBN: 0763715697; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0763715697/icongroupinterna
·
The CenterWatch Directory of Drugs in Clinical Trials by CenterWatch; Paperback - 656 pages (2000), CenterWatch, Inc.; ISBN: 0967302935; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0967302935/icongroupinterna
·
The Complete Guide to Informed Consent in Clinical Trials by Terry Hartnett (Editor); Paperback - 164 pages (2000), PharmSource Information
46 Toxoplasmosis
Services, Inc.; ISBN: 0970153309; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0970153309/icongroupinterna ·
Dictionary for Clinical Trials by Simon Day; Paperback - 228 pages (1999), John Wiley & Sons; ISBN: 0471985961; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0471985961/icongroupinterna
·
Extending Medicare Reimbursement in Clinical Trials by Institute of Medicine Staff (Editor), et al; Paperback 1st edition (2000), National Academy Press; ISBN: 0309068886; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0309068886/icongroupinterna
·
Handbook of Clinical Trials by Marcus Flather (Editor); Paperback (2001), Remedica Pub Ltd; ISBN: 1901346293; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1901346293/icongroupinterna
Vocabulary Builder The following vocabulary builder gives definitions of words used in this chapter that have not been defined in previous chapters: Anemia: A reduction in the number of circulating erythrocytes or in the quantity of hemoglobin. [NIH] Jaundice: A clinical manifestation of hyperbilirubinemia, consisting of deposition of bile pigments in the skin, resulting in a yellowish staining of the skin and mucous membranes. [NIH]
47
PART II: ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND ADVANCED MATERIAL
ABOUT PART II In Part II, we introduce you to additional resources and advanced research on toxoplasmosis. All too often, patients who conduct their own research are overwhelmed by the difficulty in finding and organizing information. The purpose of the following chapters is to provide you an organized and structured format to help you find additional information resources on toxoplasmosis. In Part II, as in Part I, our objective is not to interpret the latest advances on toxoplasmosis or render an opinion. Rather, our goal is to give you access to original research and to increase your awareness of sources you may not have already considered. In this way, you will come across the advanced materials often referred to in pamphlets, books, or other general works. Once again, some of this material is technical in nature, so consultation with a professional familiar with toxoplasmosis is suggested.
Studies 49
CHAPTER 4. STUDIES ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview Every year, academic studies are published on toxoplasmosis or related conditions. Broadly speaking, there are two types of studies. The first are peer reviewed. Generally, the content of these studies has been reviewed by scientists or physicians. Peer-reviewed studies are typically published in scientific journals and are usually available at medical libraries. The second type of studies is non-peer reviewed. These works include summary articles that do not use or report scientific results. These often appear in the popular press, newsletters, or similar periodicals. In this chapter, we will show you how to locate peer-reviewed references and studies on toxoplasmosis. We will begin by discussing research that has been summarized and is free to view by the public via the Internet. We then show you how to generate a bibliography on toxoplasmosis and teach you how to keep current on new studies as they are published or undertaken by the scientific community.
The Combined Health Information Database The Combined Health Information Database summarizes studies across numerous federal agencies. To limit your investigation to research studies and toxoplasmosis, you will need to use the advanced search options. First, go to http://chid.nih.gov/index.html. From there, select the “Detailed Search” option (or go directly to that page with the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html). The trick in extracting studies is found in the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language you prefer, and the
50 Toxoplasmosis
format option “Journal Article.” At the top of the search form, select the number of records you would like to see (we recommend 100) and check the box to display “whole records.” We recommend that you type in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box. Consider using the option “anywhere in record” to make your search as broad as possible. If you want to limit the search to only a particular field, such as the title of the journal, then select this option in the “Search in these fields” drop box. The following is a sample of what you can expect from this type of search: ·
Preventing Illness: Peace of Mind Through Prophylaxis Source: Positively Aware; Fall 1993. Contact: Test Positive Aware Network, 5537 N Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60640, (773) 989-9400, http://www.tpan.com. Summary: This article discusses prophylaxis and HIV-related illnesses, beginning with an explanation of CD4 lymphocytes and how the CD4 cell count determines when prophylactic treatment should begin. The prophylactic drugs examined include Septra or Bactrim for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), with Dapsone as an alternative. Septra is also indicated for toxoplasmosis, while Mycobutin is used for Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC); Fluconazole, for candidiasis; and Izoniazid, for tuberculosis (TB). In each case, the infections themselves are discussed as well as possible side effects from the treatments. Also, routine vaccinations are also recommended for HIV-positive persons. Prophylactic treatments do not mean infections will not occur.
·
Opportunistic Infections Source: The News; Vol. IX, No. 1, Feb.-Mar. 1993. Contact: Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Center, 159 Ralph McGill Blvd Ste 600, Atlanta, GA, 30308, (404) 523-7500, http://www.aglc.org. Summary: This journal article lists opportunistic infections alphabetically and references them by common names, causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. It includes candidiasis, cervical cancer, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, HIV wasting syndrome, Kaposi's sarcoma, lymphoma, pneumonia, salmonella, toxoplasmosis, and tuberculosis. It also indexes coccidiomycosis, cryptococcosis, cryptosporidiosis, HIV dementia, Microsporidosis, Maycobacterium avium complex (MAC), and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.
·
Etiology of Hearing Loss in Children: Nongenetic Causes Source: Pediatric Clinics of North America. 46(1): 49-64. February 1999.
Studies 51
Contact: Available from W.B. Saunders. Periodicals Fulfillment, 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32887-4800. (800) 654-2452. Website: www.wbsaunders.com. Summary: In this article, the many nongenetic causes of hearing loss are discussed. The author focuses on the most common causes of nongenetic hearing loss in children and places them in the context of the changes in the major causes of hearing loss over the past few decades. The author first discusses children who are 'graduates' of neonatal intensive care units (NICU), covering hypoxia, persistence pulmonary hypertension and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, hyperbilirubinemia, and ototoxic medications. The author then discusses meningitis; congenital infections, including cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex infection, congenital rubella, congenital syphilis, congenital toxoplasmosis, and prenatal toxic syndrome; otitis media, hearing loss, and developmental sequelae; ototoxic medications and substances; noise induced hearing loss (NIHL); head trauma; and other causes of hearing loss, including mumps and hypothyroidism. The author concludes by reiterating that the identification of a cause of the hearing loss is important for planning a habilitation plan, for knowing the prognosis, for medical monitoring of associated disorders, and for family planning. 78 references. ·
Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children Source: Pediatric Clinics in North America. 43(6): 1195-1216. December 1996. Summary: This article reviews the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children. The article begins with a brief discussion of the social and educational impact of an undetected hearing loss in infants and young children, then reviews the goals of universal screening and hearing loss detection. The author notes that an optimal protocol for universal screening would permit infants with normal hearing to be accurately segregated from those with true positive results who need expensive follow up and would help identify neonates with transient conducive hearing losses, sparing them the necessity of follow-ups. The article goes on to discuss the causes of SNHL, the use of a multidisciplinary team evaluation, the measurement of hearing (using evoked otacoustic emissions, or OAE, and other methods), and the advances in understanding the genetics of hearing loss. The remainder of the article considers the nongenetic causes of hearing loss, including congenital cytomegalovirus infection, congenital toxoplasmosis, congenital syphilis, rubella, measles and mumps, herpes simplex encephalitis, bacterial meningitis, toxic drugs and chemicals, hypoxia and anoxia, hyperbilirubinemia, recurrent otitis media, neonatal
52 Toxoplasmosis
intensive care, ear or temporal bone trauma, perilymph fistula, and noiseinduced hearing loss. 3 tables. 79 references. (AA-M). ·
Infant Hearing Screening Program: High-Risk Factors for Hearing Loss Source: Seminars in Hearing. 17(2): 165-170. May 1996. Summary: This article stresses the importance of identifying early risk factors for hearing loss. Early identification provides significant advantages for hearing improvement; later identification of hearing impairment carries serious consequences for language development. Various screening techniques have been developed and these are important for the direction of future research in the diagnosis and management of hearing impairment in infants and children. The authors report on their experiences in a hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and note that there is approximately a 1 to 3 percent incidence of significant hearing impairment that can be diagnosed in the NICU setting. Routine use of the high risk registry (following guidelines established by an NIH Consensus Conference) only results in a detection rate of 50 percent. Presently, the average age of diagnosing significant hearing loss in children is two and one-half years. Children with cranial facial abnormalities are at high risk for having sensorineural hearing impairment. Hearing impairment can be associated with low agar scores and low birth weight. Children who have intrauterine exposure to toxoplasmosis, syphilis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes (TORCH) are at high risk for hearing impairment in the neonatal period. The article concludes with a brief discussion of the impact of ear infections on hearing in children and a discussion of the cost-effectiveness of hearing screening. 11 references. (AA-M).
·
Teratogenic Hearing Loss Source: Journal of the American Academy of Audiology. 6(1): 28-38. January 1995. Summary: In this article, the authors introduce the subject of teratology and discuss the ototoxic teratogenic agents that have potentially deleterious effects on the human auditory system. Topics covered include embryologic considerations; the study of environmental teratogenesis; infectious agents, including viral infections in general, rubella, cytomegalovirus, bacterial infections, syphilis, and toxoplasmosis; nonprescription drugs, including thalidomide, and ethyl alcohol and fetal alcohol syndrome; prescription drugs, including aminoglycosides, and chloroquine; physical agents; maternal metabolic and genetic factors; and general considerations regarding teratogenic hearing loss. 4 tables. 59 references.
Studies 53
·
Foodborne Protozoal Infection Source: Lancet. 336(8728): 1427-1432. December 8, 1990. Summary: This article considers foodborne protozoal infection. This type of infection is uncommon because the protozoa involved are obligate parasites and cannot multiply in food; yet it is becoming more recognized as outbreaks are reported. The author discusses the natural history of the protozoa, foodborne enteric infection, foodborne systemic infection, and control of infection. Specific infections considered include giardiasis, amoebiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and toxoplasmosis. 2 figures. 1 table. 33 references.
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Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection in Urology Source: Current Opinion in Urology. 7(1): 52-56. January 1997. Contact: Available from Rapid Science Publishers. 400 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19106. (800) 552-5866 or (215) 574-2210. Fax (215) 574-3533. Summary: Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) damages an individual's cell-mediated immunity, predisposing him or her to opportunistic infections, malignancies, and metabolic disturbances. This review article concentrates on recent literature addressing the more common related illnesses requiring urologic attention, notably genitourinary infections, malignancies, and voiding dysfunction, in patients with HIV infection. Urinary infections are more common in HIV patients, particularly those with AIDS. Toxoplasmosis, the most common cause of focal central nervous system lesions in AIDS patients, can rarely infect the bladder. HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a syndrome of rapidly progressive, irreversible renal failure that may occur in up to 25 to 35 percent of patients with AIDS; it is more common among the black population. Other kidney diseases associated with HIV include renal cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, Aspergillus renal infection, and renal abscess. Prostatitis and prostate abscess are also problems seen in HIV patients. Voiding problems among HIV-infected patients are common. Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is the most common opportunistic malignancy in patients with AIDS; genital KS occurs most commonly on the glans penis. Local complications from KS or therapy may include obstruction, urethrocutaneous fistula or rectourethral fistula. Testicular tumors are the third most common AIDS-linked malignancy following KS and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Microscopic hematuria is common among HIV-infected patients. The author concludes with a reminder to readers of the importance of the use of universal precautions when working with all patients. 2 tables. 50 references (8 annotated). (AA-M).
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Pathologic Basis of the Symptomatic Epilepsies in Childhood Source: Journal of Child Neurology. 13(8):361-371, August 1998. Summary: The authors summarize the etiologies of the symptomatic epilepsies of childhood. The etiologies are (1) malformative, (2) metabolic, (3) neoplastic, (4) hypoxic-ischemic, (5) infectious, and (6) unknown. Malformative etiologies include (1) lissencephaly, types I through IV; (2) regional cortical dysplasia, including focal cortical dysplasia and perisylvian dysplasia; (3) heterotopia; (4) hemimegalencephaly; (5) microdysgenesis; and (6) vascular malformations, including arteriovenous malformation, cavernous angioma, and arteriovenous aneurysm of vein of Galen. Metabolic disorders associated with childhood epilepsy include (1) acute intermittent porphyria, (2) Alpers syndrome, and (3) biotinidase deficiency. Tumors and phakomatoses in childhood epilepsy include (1) gangliogliomas, (2) dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor, (3) desmoplastic cerebral astrocytoma of infancy, (4) desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma, (5) pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, (6) subependymal giant cell astrocytoma of tuberous sclerosis complex, (7) Sturge-Weber syndrome, and (8) tuberous sclerosis complex. Vascular lesions in childhood epilepsy include (1) hypoxic-ischemic lesions in infants, (2) focal cortical infarction in infants and children, (3) moyamoya disease, and (4) intracranial hemorrhages. Infectious etiologies include (1) bacterial infections, (2) viral infections, (3) toxoplasmosis, and (4) cysticercosis. Ammon's horn sclerosis, a lesion of unknown etiology, is the most common lesion seen in temporal lobe resections for intractable complex partial epilepsy. The authors review the pathologic processes involved in each type of symptomatic epilepsy. 1 figure, 1 table, 113 references.
Federally-Funded Research on Toxoplasmosis The U.S. Government supports a variety of research studies relating to toxoplasmosis and associated conditions. These studies are tracked by the Office of Extramural Research at the National Institutes of Health.19 CRISP (Computerized Retrieval of Information on Scientific Projects) is a searchable Healthcare projects are funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), and Office of Assistant Secretary of Health (OASH).
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database of federally-funded biomedical research projects conducted at universities, hospitals, and other institutions. Visit the CRISP Web site at http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket. You can perform targeted searches by various criteria including geography, date, as well as topics related to toxoplasmosis and related conditions. For most of the studies, the agencies reporting into CRISP provide summaries or abstracts. As opposed to clinical trial research using patients, many federally-funded studies use animals or simulated models to explore toxoplasmosis and related conditions. In some cases, therefore, it may be difficult to understand how some basic or fundamental research could eventually translate into medical practice. The following sample is typical of the type of information found when searching the CRISP database for toxoplasmosis: ·
Project Title: Molecular Basis of Toxoplasmosis Principal Investigator & Institution: Sibley, L D.; Professor; Molecular Microbiology; Washington University Lindell and Skinker Blvd St. Louis, Mo 63130 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-JUL-1994; Project End 1-MAR2004 Summary: The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii commonly infects humans and poses an important threat to immunocompromised patients, primarily due to the potential for reactivation of latent infection. Our previous studies have shown that Toxoplasma gondii consists of three wide-spread clonal lineages and that the majority of human cases of toxoplasmosis (greater than 80 percent) are caused by type II strains. These findings imply that the small number of genetic differences between Toxoplasma strains underlie important biological differences, including their capacity to cause disease. The mechanisms of tissue pathology that occur during acute toxoplasmosis or reactivation of latency by different strains of Toxoplasma are poorly understood. To address this deficiency, we will examine the role of the parasite genotype in infection, dissemination, and tissue pathology during toxoplasmosis in the mouse model. We will identify and evaluate specific parasite genes that are responsible for pathology during toxoplasmosis focusing on genes that mediate acute virulence and genes that are associated with elevated levels of chronic infection. A combination of molecular genetic strategies will be used to directly test the role of specific parasite genes in toxoplasmosis in the mouse model. Identification of parasite virulence genes may facilitate future studies designed to combat toxoplasmosis in humans, including AIDS patients suffering from reactivation.
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Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: Role of Neutrophils during Toxoplasmosis Principal Investigator & Institution: Denkers, Eric Y.; Associate Professor; Microbiology and Immunology; Cornell University Ithaca Ithaca, Ny 14853 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 5-JUN-2000; Project End 1-MAY2004 Summary: The long-term objective of this project is to understand how the host immune system responds to the opportunistic protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, and to define the conditions under which immunity is effective and those under which it fails. This application specifically focuses on the role of neutrophils during T. gondii infection. It has recently been shown in mice that neutrophils are essential to survive acute toxoplasmosis, but the means by which they mediate protection are unclear. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) are well known as one of the first components of the immune system to arrive at a focus of infection. The major function of these cells is conventionally thought to be microbicidal activity, mediated by phagocytosis and release of toxic molecules such as superoxide. However, a newly emerging view is that neutrophils are an important source of several important proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Our hypothesis is that PMN cytokine production accounts for their protective function, and that these cells are a crucial early IL- 12 source which triggers protective immunity to the parasite. There are four specific aims to evaluate this hypothesis. 1, Characterize the spectrum of cytokines and chemokines released by mouse neutrophils in response to T. gondii, and determine how the responses are modulated by exogenous cytokines. This will be accomplished using a combined approach of cytokine microarrays to examine upregulated gene transcription, and ELISA to examine protein expression. 2, Determine whether PMN serve as a source of cytokines, in particular IL-12, during infection initiated by intraperitoneal and oral inoculation. Confocal fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry for intracellular cytokines will be employed to achieve this objective. 3, Determine if parasite-triggered neutrophil cytokines influence type 1 cytokine-based immunity. This aim will be achieved examining the influence of neutrophils and their products on dendritic, T, and NK cell function. 4, Determine if neutrophils display toxoplasmastatic activity, and if such a response is influenced by exogenous cytokines. The ability of these cells to phagocytose tachyzoites will be evaluated using fluorescent endocytosis markers, and effects on
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parasite replication will be determined by uptake of 3H-UdR, a compound selectively incorporated by proliferating tachyzoites. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: The Role of Neutrophils in Toxoplasmosis Principal Investigator & Institution: Bliss, Susan K.; Microbiology and Immunology; Cornell University Ithaca Ithaca, Ny 14853 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 7-MAY-2000 Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular protozoan parasite, which causes morbidity and mortality in a broad range of species, including human beings. As an opportunistic organs, its importance as a pathogen has resurfaced with the AIDS epidemic. It has been estimated that approximately 30% of AIDS patients suffer from reactivation of infection. In mice, T. gondii induces a strong and protective cell mediated immune response which is driven by early IL-12 production. Several cell types elaborate IL-12 and may participate in this early priming of the immune response. These include activated macrophages and dendritic cells. Recently, neutrophils have been shown to produce IL-12 rapidly in response to several microbial pathogens. We hypothesize that neutrophils not only synthesize and release IL-12 (and other immunoregulatory cytokines and chemokines) in response to T. gondii but also influence the developing immune system in vivo, ultimately impacting survival. To address this hypothesis, we will investigate cytokine and chemokine production by neutrophils and their effect on adaptive immunity. To do this, we will examine cytokine and chemokine production by neutrophils and their effect on adaptive immunity. To do this, we will examine cytokine and chemokine production in isolated neutrophils and follow development of the immune response in granulocyte-depleted mice. Since neutrophils possess numerous effector mechanisms in addition to cytokine production (e.g., killing mechanisms), we will also investigate the production and effects of R0I, RNI, and several granule constituents on survival of T. gondii. Overall, our goal is to determine the role of neutrophils in influencing the immune response during toxoplasmosis. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
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Project Title: Toxoplasmosis--Infection and Immune Response Principal Investigator & Institution: Remington, Jack S.; Palo Alto Medical Foundation Res Inst 795 El Camino Real Palo Alto, Ca 94301 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-APR-1977; Project End 1-MAR2002
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Summary: We propose to develop more sensitive and specific methods for diagnosis of acute toxoplasmosis in pregnant women, congenitally infected newborns, acute ocular toxoplasmosis and immunocompromised patients. To achieve this, we will attempt to identify antigens/epitopes recognized by Ig subclasses during the acute infection in adults and by those produced in the congenitally infected fetus/newborn. Recombinant antigens and selected synthetic peptides derived from surface and secreted antigens of T.gondii will be studies. To identify genes that encode antigens recognized by antibodies early during infection, tachyzoite cDNA expression libraries will be screened with purified IgM, IgA and IgE antibodies from sera of acutely infected patients and with antibodies raised against the unique acute phase AC antigen. To identify linear and conformational epitopes recognized by acute phase antibodies, we will attempt to identify peptides that mimic epitopes from T.gondii acute phase antigens using a phage-display random peptide library. Our observation of unique antigens recognized by the fetus but not by their mothers will be further examined to improve diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. A new model of toxoplasmosis in mice genetically resistant to development of toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE) that more nearly resembles the natural resistance of humans to T. gondii (in humans, life threatening TE only develops when the immune system is severely impaired), will be used to study the role of alpha beta, gamma/delta, CD4+ and CD8+T cells (using adoptive transfer), cytokines and the major surface antigen SAG1 in resistance against and the histopathology of TE. Previous models were in mice genetically susceptible to development of TE> Cytokine production by and cytotoxic activity of gamma/delta and alpha/beta cells from brains of mice will be examined following infection. We will attempt to quantify parasites in the brain using transgenetic tachyzoites that express beta-galactosidase. We recently demonstrated for the first time that a clinical manifestation of toxoplasmosis, (TE in AIDS), may be under genetic regulation. We propose to determine whether toxoplasmic lymphadenopathy is also under genetic regulation since only approximately 10% of acutely infected, immunocompetent individuals develop this clinical manifestation. We propose to continue seeking more active and less toxic therapies for toxoplasmosis. We will identify the most satisfactory in vitro method for this purpose by comparing 3 methods now in use. Drugs will be tested alone or in combination with other drugs and/or cytokines in vitro and in mouse models of acute toxoplasmosis or TE. Drug activity against the cyst form will also be studied. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
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Project Title: Treatment of Congenital Toxoplasmosis Principal Investigator & Institution: Mcleod, Rima L.; Professor; Ophthalmology and Visual Sci; University of Chicago 5801 S Ellis Ave Chicago, Il 60637 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-SEP-1994; Project End 0-JUN2005 Summary: Long=term objectives are to reduce morbidity and mortality due to congenital Toxoplasma gondii infection by improved use of antimicrobial agents and understanding its pathogenesis. Our specific aim is to determine optimal methods to evaluate, treat and provide follow up care for children suffering from congenital toxoplasmosis. Our ongoing, prospective, randomized treatment trial will be continued, as initially planned, to determine early and long term outcome for treated children, including children who have been treated in utero. Cognitive, motor, ocular and audiologic outcome will be determined following treatment with one of two dosages of pyrimethamine plus sulfadiazine during the first year of life. Evaluation of the cohort of older, untreated "historical patient" children with retinal disease provides an ideal and well characterized group of patients for a future randomized, placebocontrolled study of effect of antimicrobial agents active against encysted bradyzoites on relapsing chorioretinitis. These studies will contribute to determining how to best provide medical care to children afflicted with congenital toxoplasmosis. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
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Project Title: IL-4 And Resistance to Toxoplasma Gondii Principal Investigator & Institution: Hunter, Christopher A.; Associate Professor; Pathobiology; University of Pennsylvania 3451 Walnut Philadelphia, Pa 19104 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 0-SEP-1998; Project End 9-SEP-2001 Summary: (Adapted from Applicant's Abstract) T cell function loss in AIDS results in the reaction of Toxoplasma gondii infection and the presentation of this infection as encephalitis (TE). The pathogenesis of this infection is still poorly defined. In order to understand this diseases it is necessary to understand the development of protective immunity to toxoplasmosis in the CNS. Preliminary results indicate that IL4 has an important role in resistance to acute toxoplasmosis in C57BL/6 mice and development of TE in Balb/c mice. These results are suprising since IL4 production is associated with a TH2 which is typically associated with susceptibility to intracellular pathogens such as T. gondii. To gain a better understanding of the role of IL4 in the observed resistance to T. gondii its
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role in the regulation of IFN_ (the major mediator of resistance to T.gondii) will be examined. In addition the possibility that IL13 can compensate for a loss of IL4 in Balb/c mice will be investigated. The effect of IL4 absence on the development of TE will also be studied and SCID mice used to examine if the observed effects are due to effects of IL4 on T cells or accessory cells. This study has implications for other infectious diseases as well's several atopic and neoplastic disorders. The regulation of the immune system during a response to infection could lead to new therapeutic paradigms and/or approaches to treatment of many diseases as well as prove important in vaccine design. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: Microneme Function in Toxoplasma Principal Investigator & Institution: Carruthers, Vernon B.; Molecular Microbiol and Immun; Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St Baltimore, Md 21218 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-JUN-2000; Project End 1-MAY2005 Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is a major opportunistic pathogen that causes severe disease (toxoplasmosis) in congenitally infected babies and immunocompromised individuals such as those suffering from AIDS. Because it is an obligate intracellular parasite, T. gondii must invade a host cell to survive and replicate. Furthermore, T. gondii invasion is directly responsible for the pathology of toxoplasmosis, since subsequent intracellular replication and egress destroys the infected host cell. Thus, a better understanding of T. gondii invasion could lead to the development of treatments for toxoplasmosis based on inhibition of invasion. Our recent studies indicate that parasite secretion of organelles called micronemes is essential for T. gondii invasion. Thus, the long-term goal of this proposal is to elucidate the function of micronemal proteins in an effort to identify new potential targets for treating toxoplasmosis. We will begin by focusing on MIC2 because our studies suggest that this micronemal protein likely functions as an important adhesin for T. gondii invasion. Specific Aim I will be to use RNA antisense inhibition to measure the importance of MIC2 for T. gondii invasion of host cells and gliding motility. Specific Aim II will be to use deletion and site-specific mutagenesis to identify the sites on MIC2 that mediate cell adhesion. Specific Aim III will be to identify host cell receptors recognized by MIC2. These studies will directly lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying T. gondii invasion of host cells. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
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Project Title: Minority Predoctoral Fellowship Program Principal Investigator & Institution: Villarino, Alejandro V.; Pathobiology; University of Pennsylvania 3451 Walnut Philadelphia, Pa 19104 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 9-MAR-2001 Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is an important parasitic infection causing much morbidity and mortality in patients with primary or acquired immunodeficiencies. Because production of IFNg is crucial in both innate and adaptive immunity to toxoplasmosis, understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the induction of this cytokine will be paramount to developing novel treatment strategies. The transcription factor NF-kB has been implicated in the production of IFNg by both NK and T cells; principal mediators of innate and adaptive immunity to toxoplasmosis respectively. Using retroviral gene transfection to selectively inhibit NFkB signaling, it will be possible to assess the role of this transcription factor in the production of IFNg by NK cells in vitro. In addition, by reconstituting sublethally irradiated RAG -/- mice with these virally transfected cells, the importance of NF-kB signaling in innate immunity to toxoplasmosis can be determined in vivo. Furthermore, by employing a transgenic mouse model in which NF-kB signaling is inhibited in T cells, the role of NF-kB activation in T cell mediated resistance to T. gondii infection can be determined. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
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Project Title: Pyrimidine Biosynthesis in Toxoplasma Gondii Principal Investigator & Institution: Zimmermann, Barbara H.; University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences Medical Sciences San Juan, Pr 00936 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000 Summary: Parasitic protozoa are a heterogeneous group of unicellular organisms causing diseases such as malaria, Chagas diseases, and toxoplasmosis, which affect millions of people world wide. The agent causing toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma gondii, produces life-threatening infections in immunosuppressed patients and in the fetus (Wong and Remington, 1993; Wong and Remington, 1994). Toxoplasmic encephalitis occurs in 10-32% of HIV-positive patients in the United States (Ammassari et al, 1996). The proposed research focuses on two enzymes of the de novo pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway in T. gondii. The aspartate transcarbamylase (ATCase) will be studied to generate basic information about the structure of the pathway. Sequencing the ATCase will show whether multi- functional or mono-functional proteins catalyze the first three steps. Kinetic analysis will determine whether the step
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catalyzed by ATCase is regulated. The proposed research would produce the first recombinant ATCase from a protozoan parasite, and would allow crystallization trials to take place. The ubiquinone binding site of the dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODase) will be used as a model to test whether the species specificity for ubiquinones of a given polyprenyl chain length is a feature of such sites. Residues in the sites will be identified using photoreactive ubiquinone analogs. Site-directed mutagenesis will be conferred by making mutations at the site. These studies may shed light on why ubiquinone analogs, such as atovaquone, exhibit species specificity. Atovaquone is currently used as an alternative treatment for HIV-associated toxoplasmosis (Fung and Kirschenbaum, 1996), and is in clinical trials in patients with Plasmodium flaciparum malaria (Lell et al., 1998). Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: Surface Proteins of Toxoplasma Gondii Principal Investigator & Institution: Ward, Gary E.; Microbiol & Molecular Genetics; University of Vermont & St Agric College Burlington, Vt 05405 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-FEB-1998; Project End 1-JAN2003 Summary: The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is an important human pathogen. As many as 4000 children are born each year in the USA with congenital toxoplasmosis, the symptoms of which range from impaired vision to hydrocephalus and death. T. gondii has also emerged as a major opportunistic pathogen of immunocompromised persons. Toxoplasmic encephalitis is one of the most common causes of central nervous system pathology in AIDS patients: it has been estimated that 2047 percent of AIDS patients in the USA develop toxoplasmic encephalitis, which is uniformly fatal if left untreated. There is an urgent need for the development of new therapeutic approaches to treating toxoplasmosis, particularly for AIDS patients. The pathology of toxoplasmosis is the direct result of host cell invasion by the parasite, followed by parasite replication and host cell lysis. Little is known about proteins on the surface of the parasite which mediate host cell invasion. The goal of the proposed work is to fill in this gap in our knowledge, by identifying novel parasite surface proteins and determining their biological function. The identification of surface proteins which play a role in invasion may be an important first step in the development of new chemotherapeutic or vaccine-based approaches to preventing or controlling acute infection. Specific Aims. All of the parasite surface proteins identified to date are anchored to the plasma membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol
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(GPI) anchor. None of these proteins appears to play an essential role in invasion. They are abundant and immunogenic, making the detection of other surface proteins difficult. We will take three independent approaches to identifying previously undescribed T. gondii surface proteins: (1) Non-GPI-linked surface proteins will be identified by surface labeling parasites after enzymatic removal of the GPI-linked proteins; (2) Photoaffinity methods will be used to specifically identify transmembrane surface proteins; and (3) A novel hybridoma screening strategy will be used to identify externally exposed parasite proteins which play a role in invasion. Immunochemical, cell biological, and molecular genetic approaches will then be used to (4) Determine the biological function of new parasite surface proteins identified in the course of accomplishing Specific Aims 1-3. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: Toxoplasma Bradyzoite Cyst Wall Structure/Biosynthesis Principal Investigator & Institution: Boothroyd, John C.; Professor and Chair; Microbiology and Immunology; Stanford University Stanford, Ca 94305 Timing: Fiscal Year 2000; Project Start 1-MAR-1999; Project End 8-FEB2002 Summary: (Adapted from Applicant's Abstract) Toxoplasma gondii is a significant cause of disease in congenitally infected infants and patients with alterations of the immune system. The disease is perpetuated in nature by encysted forms of the parasite, either as undercooked meat infected with tissue cysts or as oocysts in food or water contaminated with cat excrement. The overall purpose of this proposal is to decipher the molecular events involved in this process, focusing on the structure and function of carbohydrate residues found in the cyst wall. The specific aims of the proposal are directed at a) elucidating structural and biosynthetic aspects of N-acetylglucosameine (GlcNAc) and Nacetylgalactosomaine (GalNAc) containing carbohydrate moieties which have been identified in cyst walls and b) relating these aspects to the biological role of these structures in differentiation of the parasite. The first aim is to determine the structure and linkage of GalNAc and GlcNAc residues in cyst glycoconjugates with the long term objective of studying their biosynthesis and ascertaining whether they serve as precursor moieties for the synthesis of the cell wall which is a key event in differentiation. The second aim is to characterize and purify chitin synthase which is developmentally regulated enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of chitin. These studies will facilitate the long term objective of delineating genetic control for differentiation at the molecular level by
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identifying cyst specific genes encoding developmentally regulated proteins involved in the biosynthesis of cell wall polysaccharides. The last aim is to relate the findings obtained at the structural and biochemical level to growth and differentiation of the parasite in vitro as well as in vivo in the murine model of toxoplasmosis. The ultimate goal is to design strategies to arrest differentiation, interrupt the life cycle of the parasite, and control spread of disease. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket ·
Project Title: Toxoplasma Encephalitis in AIDS:Bradyzoite Regulation Principal Investigator & Institution: Weiss, Louis M.; Professor; Pathology; Yeshiva University 500 W 185Th St New York, Ny 10033 Timing: Fiscal Year 2001; Project Start 1-APR-1996; Project End 1-DEC2004 Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous Apicomplexan protozoan parasite of mammals and birds, which is responsible for several important clinical syndromes in humans. The predilection of this parasite for the central nervous system (CNS) causing behavioral disorders and especially, fatal necrotizing encephalitis constitutes its major threat to patients with WV infection. CNS toxoplasmosis ranks among the ten most commonly occurring opportunistic infections in AIDS patients, and may well be a greater direct cause of morbidity and mortality than other more common opportunistic infections. If acquired during pregnancy infection can result in the syndrome of congenital toxoplasmosis with attendant encephalitis, mental retardation, and chorioretinitis. In both conditions, reactivation of the latent encysted state of the organism (bradyzoite) to the active replicative form (tachyzoite) is associated with progression of disease and is directly implicated in the pathology that attends this infection. Despite major advances in our understanding of the cell biology of T. gondii as well as our ability to manipulate this parasite in vitro, very little is known about the developmental pathways and control mechanisms in the transition of tachyzoites to bradyzoites. Stress conditions are associated with the induction of bradyzoite development and in the last granting period we identified several beat shock proteins (lisps) associated with this differentiation event. BAG 1, a small heat shock protein (sxnHsp), is induced early during bradyzoite differentiation. This smHsp was cloned and a knockout constructed. The BAG1 knockout formed fewer cysts in vivo; suggesting that BAG1 was associated with the ability of T. gondif to form cysts. In addition, we identified a glycoprotein, CST1, that is also induced early during bradyzoite development. We now plan to focus our studies on the differentiation or developmental biology of T. gondii and define those
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factors that are involved in the interconversion of the active or acute stage to the latent or chronic stage of this disease. Thus, this proposal will entail the characterization of a unique early bradyzoite antigen CST1, definition of the function(s) of BAG1 (a smHsp) and the characterization of the stress response in T. gondil. Each of these specific aims will fUrther our understanding of the early events in bradyzoite differentiation leading to chronic (latent) toxoplasmosis. Therapeutic modalities aimed at interdicting bradyzoite formation should eradicate this infection in the infected host, thereby eliminating bradyzoite reactivation which is the key element in the development of CNS toxoplasmosis in AIDS. Website: http://commons.cit.nih.gov/crisp3/CRISP.Generate_Ticket
E-Journals: PubMed Central20 PubMed Central (PMC) is a digital archive of life sciences journal literature developed and managed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) at the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).21 Access to this growing archive of e-journals is free and unrestricted.22 To search, go to http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/index.html#search, and type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box. This search gives you access to full-text articles. The following is a sample of items found for toxoplasmosis in the PubMed Central database: ·
A dichotomous role for nitric oxide during acute Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice by Imtiaz A. Khan, Joseph D. Schwartzman, Tadashi Matsuura, and Lloyd H. Kasper; 1997 December 9 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=28414
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Comparative Immunoglobulin G Antibody Profiles between Mother and Child (CGMC Test) for Early Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis by Uwe Gross, Carsten G. K. Luder, Vera Hendgen, Cornelia Heeg, Irmtraud Sauer, Andrea Weidner, Doris Krczal, and Gisela Enders; 2000 October http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87446&ren dertype=external
Adapted from the National Library of Medicine: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/about/intro.html. 21 With PubMed Central, NCBI is taking the lead in preservation and maintenance of open access to electronic literature, just as NLM has done for decades with printed biomedical literature. PubMed Central aims to become a world-class library of the digital age. 22 The value of PubMed Central, in addition to its role as an archive, lies the availability of data from diverse sources stored in a common format in a single repository. Many journals already have online publishing operations, and there is a growing tendency to publish material online only, to the exclusion of print. 20
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Congenital toxoplasmosis: systematic review of evidence of efficacy of treatment in pregnancy by Martine Wallon, Christiane Liou, Paul Garner, and Francois Peyron; 1999 June 5 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=27891
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Detection of Immunoglobulin M Antibodies to P35 Antigen of Toxoplasma gondii for Serodiagnosis of Recently Acquired Infection in Pregnant Women by Yasuhiro Suzuki, Raymund Ramirez, Cindy Press, Shuli Li, Stephen Parmley, Philippe Thulliez, and Jack S. Remington; 2000 November http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87526&ren dertype=external
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Detection of Specific Immunoglobulin E during Maternal, Fetal, and Congenital Toxoplasmosis by I. Villena, D. Aubert, V. Brodard, C. Quereux, B. Leroux, D. Dupouy, G. Remy, F. Foudrinier, C. Chemla, J. E. Gomez-Marin, and J. M. Pinon; 1999 November http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=85675&ren dertype=external
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Development of a Real-Time PCR Assay for Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in Pig and Mouse Tissues by L. H. Jauregui, J. Higgins, D. Zarlenga, J. P. Dubey, and J. K. Lunney; 2001 June http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=88090&ren dertype=external
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Early Aqueous Humor Analysis in Patients with Human Ocular Toxoplasmosis by Justus G. Garweg, Patrick Jacquier, and Matthias Boehnke; 2000 March http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=86322&ren dertype=external
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Fractionation of Membrane Components from Tachyzoite Forms of Toxoplasma gondii: Differential Recognition by Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG Present in Sera from Patients with Acute or Chronic Toxoplasmosis by Monica Giraldo, Helia Cannizzaro, Michael A. J. Ferguson, Igor C. Almeida, and Ricardo T. Gazzinelli; 2000 April http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=86463&ren dertype=external
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Genotypic Characterization of Toxoplasma gondii Strains Associated with Human Toxoplasmosis in Spain: Direct Analysis from Clinical Samples by Isabel Fuentes, Jose M. Rubio, Carmen Ramirez, and Jorge Alvar; 2001 April http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87971&ren dertype=external
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Human V[delta]2+\ [gamma] [delta] T-Cell Tolerance to Foreign Antigens of Toxoplasma gondii by T Hara, S Ohashi, Y Yamashita, T Abe, H Hisaeda, K Himeno, RA Good, and K Takeshita; 1996 May 14 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?rendertype=abst ract&artid=39420
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Increased risk of traffic accidents in subjects with latent toxoplasmosis: a retrospective case-control study by Jaroslav Flegr, Jan Havlicek, Petr Kodym, Marek Maly, and Zbynek Smahel; 2002 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=117239
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Induction of Heat Shock Protein Closely Correlates with Protection Against Toxoplasma gondii Infection by H Nagasawa, M Oka, K Maeda, C Jian-Guo, H Hisaeda, Y Ito, RA Good, and K Himeno; 1992 April 1 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?rendertype=abst ract&artid=48823
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Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy: Confounding Effects on Serological Screening for Toxoplasmosis during Pregnancy by Herve Pelloux, Helene Fricker-Hidalgo, Gilbert Brochier, Andree GoullierFleuret, and Pierre Ambroise-Thomas; 1999 October http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=85593&ren dertype=external
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Nuclear-encoded proteins target to the plastid in Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum by Ross F. Waller, Patrick J. Keeling, Robert G. K. Donald, Boris Striepen, Emanuela Handman, Naomi LangUnnasch, Alan F. Cowman, Gurdyal S. Besra, David S. Roos, and Geoffrey I. McFadden; 1998 October 13 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=22835
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Polyomyositis and myocarditis associated with acquired toxoplasmosis in an immunocompetent girl by Penelope K. Paspalaki, Eleni P. Mihailidou, Maria Bitsori, Daria Tsagkaraki, and Eva Mantzouranis; 2001 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=65052
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Prevalence of Congenital Toxoplasma gondii Infection among Newborns from the Poznan Region of Poland: Validation of a New Combined Enzyme Immunoassay for Toxoplasma gondii-Specific Immunoglobulin A and Immunoglobulin M Antibodies by Malgorzata Paul, Eskild Petersen, and Jerzy Szczapa; 2001 May http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=88047&ren dertype=external
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Rapid Identification of Virulent Type I Strains of the Protozoan Pathogen Toxoplasma gondii by PCR-Restriction Fragment Length
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Polymorphism Analysis at the B1 Gene by Michael E. Grigg and John C. Boothroyd; 2001 January http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87743&ren dertype=external ·
Real-Time PCR for Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Toxoplasma Reactivation after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation Using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer Hybridization Probes by J.-M. Costa, C. Pautas, P. Ernault, F. Foulet, C. Cordonnier, and S. Bretagne; 2000 August http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87150&ren dertype=external
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Real-Time PCR for Quantitative Detection of Toxoplasma gondii by Mei-Hui Lin, Tse-Ching Chen, Tseng-tong Kuo, Ching-Chung Tseng, and Ching-Ping Tseng; 2000 November http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87551&ren dertype=external
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Recombinant Antigens To Detect Toxoplasma gondii-Specific Immunoglobulin G and Immunoglobulin M in Human Sera by Enzyme Immunoassay by D. Aubert, G. T. Maine, I. Villena, J. C. Hunt, L. Howard, M. Sheu, S. Brojanac, L. E. Chovan, S. F. Nowlan, and J. M. Pinon; 2000 March http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=86359&ren dertype=external
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Serodiagnosis of Recently Acquired Toxoplasma gondii Infection with a Recombinant Antigen by Shuli Li, Greg Maine, Yasuhiro Suzuki, Fausto G. Araujo, Gina Galvan, Jack S. Remington, and Stephen Parmley; 2000 January http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=88692&ren dertype=external
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Simple and Efficient Method for Measuring Anti-Toxoplasma Immunoglobulin Antibodies in Human Sera Using ComplementMediated Lysis of Transgenic Tachyzoites Expressing [beta]Galactosidase by Caroline Dando, Katie E. Gabriel, Jack S. Remington, and Stephen F. Parmley; 2001 June http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=88099&ren dertype=external
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Sources of toxoplasma infection in pregnant women: European multicentre case-control study by A J C Cook, R E Gilbert, W Buffolano, J Zufferey, E Petersen, P A Jenum, W Foulon, A E Semprini, and D T Dunn; 2000 July 15 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=27431
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Strategy for Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Evaluation of Methods Comparing Mothers and Newborns and Standard Methods for Postnatal Detection of Immunoglobulin G, M, and A Antibodies by J. M. Pinon, H. Dumon, C. Chemla, J. Franck, E. Petersen, M. Lebech, J. Zufferey, M.-H. Bessieres, P. Marty, R. Holliman, J. Johnson, V. Luyasu, B. Lecolier, E. Guy, D. H. M. Joynson, A. Decoster, G. Enders, H. Pelloux, and E. Candolfi; 2001 June http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=88122&ren dertype=external
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The Parasitophorus Vacuole Membrane Surrounding Intracellular Toxoplasma gondii Functions as a Molecular Sieve by JC Schwab, CJM Beckers, and KA Joiner; 1994 January 18 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?rendertype=abst ract&artid=42978
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Toxoplasma Invasion: The Parasitophorous Vacuole is Formed from Host Cell Plasma Membrane and Pinches off Via a Fission Pore by E Suss-Toby, J Zimmerberg, and GE Ward; 1996 August 6 http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?rendertype=abst ract&artid=38685
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Utility of Tissue Culture for Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in Vitreous Humor of Patients Diagnosed with Toxoplasmic Retinochoroiditis by Darlene Miller, Janet Davis, Robert Rosa, Martha Diaz, and Edith Perez; 2000 October http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=87488&ren dertype=external
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Value of PCR for Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in Aqueous Humor and Blood Samples from Immunocompetent Patients with Ocular Toxoplasmosis by German Bou, Marta S. Figueroa, Paloma Marti-Belda, Enrique Navas, and Antonio Guerrero; 1999 November http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=85668&ren dertype=external
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Value of Prenatal Diagnosis and Early Postnatal Diagnosis of Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Retrospective Study of 110 Cases by Florence Robert-Gangneux, Marie-Francoise Gavinet, Thierry Ancelle, Josette Raymond, Claudine Tourte-Schaefer, and Jean Dupouy-Camet; 1999 September http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=85406&ren dertype=external
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The National Library of Medicine: PubMed One of the quickest and most comprehensive ways to find academic studies in both English and other languages is to use PubMed, maintained by the National Library of Medicine. The advantage of PubMed over previously mentioned sources is that it covers a greater number of domestic and foreign references. It is also free to the public.23 If the publisher has a Web site that offers full text of its journals, PubMed will provide links to that site, as well as to sites offering other related data. User registration, a subscription fee, or some other type of fee may be required to access the full text of articles in some journals. To generate your own bibliography of studies dealing with toxoplasmosis, simply go to the PubMed Web site at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. Type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box, and click “Go.” The following is the type of output you can expect from PubMed for “toxoplasmosis” (hyperlinks lead to article summaries): ·
Toxoplasma encephalitis complicating Hodgkin's disease. Author(s): Whiteside JD, Begent RH. Source: Journal of Clinical Pathology. 1975 June; 28(6): 443-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=1141443&dopt=Abstract
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Toxoplasma gondii: purification and characterization of an immunogenic metallopeptidase. Author(s): Berthonneau J, Rodier MH, El Moudni B, Jacquemin JL. Source: Experimental Parasitology. 2000 June; 95(2): 158-62. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=10910719&dopt=Abstract
Vocabulary Builder Abscess: A localized collection of pus caused by suppuration buried in tissues, organs, or confined spaces. [EU] PubMed was developed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) at the National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The PubMed database was developed in conjunction with publishers of biomedical literature as a search tool for accessing literature citations and linking to full-text journal articles at Web sites of participating publishers. Publishers that participate in PubMed supply NLM with their citations electronically prior to or at the time of publication.
23
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Adenosine: A nucleoside that is composed of adenine and d-ribose. Adenosine or adenosine derivatives play many important biological roles in addition to being components of DNA and RNA. Adenosine itself is a neurotransmitter. [NIH] Agar: A complex sulfated polymer of galactose units, extracted from Gelidium cartilagineum, Gracilaria confervoides, and related red algae. It is used as a gel in the preparation of solid culture media for microorganisms, as a bulk laxative, in making emulsions, and as a supporting medium for immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. [NIH] Aneurysm: A sac formed by the dilatation of the wall of an artery, a vein, or the heart. The chief signs of arterial aneurysm are the formation of a pulsating tumour, and often a bruit (aneurysmal bruit) heard over the swelling. Sometimes there are symptoms from pressure on contiguous parts. [EU]
Anoxia: A total lack of oxygen; often used interchangeably with hypoxia to mean a reduced supply of oxygen to the tissues. [EU] Antibiotic: A chemical substance produced by a microorganism which has the capacity, in dilute solutions, to inhibit the growth of or to kill other microorganisms. Antibiotics that are sufficiently nontoxic to the host are used as chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of infectious diseases of man, animals and plants. [EU] Anticoagulants: Agents that prevent blood clotting. Naturally occurring agents in the blood are included only when they are used as drugs. [NIH] Antigen: Any substance which is capable, under appropriate conditions, of inducing a specific immune response and of reacting with the products of that response, that is, with specific antibody or specifically sensitized Tlymphocytes, or both. Antigens may be soluble substances, such as toxins and foreign proteins, or particulate, such as bacteria and tissue cells; however, only the portion of the protein or polysaccharide molecule known as the antigenic determinant (q.v.) combines with antibody or a specific receptor on a lymphocyte. Abbreviated Ag. [EU] Antimicrobial: Killing microorganisms, or suppressing their multiplication or growth. [EU] Aqueous: Watery; prepared with water. [EU] Arteriovenous: Both arterial and venous; pertaining to or affecting an artery and a vein. [EU] Aspergillus: A genus of mitosporic fungi containing about 100 species and eleven different teleomorphs in the family Trichocomaceae. [NIH] Assay: Determination of the amount of a particular constituent of a mixture, or of the biological or pharmacological potency of a drug. [EU]
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Atopic: Pertaining to an atopen or to atopy; allergic. [EU] Audiology: The study of hearing and hearing impairment. [NIH] Auditory: Pertaining to the sense of hearing. [EU] Biochemical: Relating to biochemistry; characterized by, produced by, or involving chemical reactions in living organisms. [EU] Biosynthesis: The building up of a chemical compound in the physiologic processes of a living organism. [EU] Candidiasis: Infection with a fungus of the genus Candida. It is usually a superficial infection of the moist cutaneous areas of the body, and is generally caused by C. albicans; it most commonly involves the skin (dermatocandidiasis), oral mucous membranes (thrush, def. 1), respiratory tract (bronchocandidiasis), and vagina (vaginitis). Rarely there is a systemic infection or endocarditis. Called also moniliasis, candidosis, oidiomycosis, and formerly blastodendriosis. [EU] Carbohydrate: An aldehyde or ketone derivative of a polyhydric alcohol, particularly of the pentahydric and hexahydric alcohols. They are so named because the hydrogen and oxygen are usually in the proportion to form water, (CH2O)n. The most important carbohydrates are the starches, sugars, celluloses, and gums. They are classified into mono-, di-, tri-, poly- and heterosaccharides. [EU] Carcinoma: A malignant new growth made up of epithelial cells tending to infiltrate the surrounding tissues and give rise to metastases. [EU] Chlamydia: A genus of the family chlamydiaceae whose species cause a variety of diseases in vertebrates including humans, mice, and swine. Chlamydia species are gram-negative and produce glycogen. The type species is chlamydia trachomatis. [NIH] Chloroquine: The prototypical antimalarial agent with a mechanism that is not well understood. It has also been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and in the systemic therapy of amebic liver abscesses. [NIH] Colorectal: Pertaining to or affecting the colon and rectum. [EU] Cortical: Pertaining to or of the nature of a cortex or bark. [EU] Cryptococcosis: Infection with a fungus of the species cryptococcus neoformans. [NIH] Cryptosporidiosis: Parasitic intestinal infection with severe diarrhea caused by a protozoan, cryptosporidium. It occurs in both animals and humans. [NIH] Crystallization: The formation of crystals; conversion to a crystalline form. [EU]
Cysteine: A thiol-containing non-essential amino acid that is oxidized to
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form cystine. [NIH] Cystine: A covalently linked dimeric nonessential amino acid formed by the oxidation of cysteine. Two molecules of cysteine are joined together by a disulfide bridge to form cystine. [NIH] Cytokines: Non-antibody proteins secreted by inflammatory leukocytes and some non-leukocytic cells, that act as intercellular mediators. They differ from classical hormones in that they are produced by a number of tissue or cell types rather than by specialized glands. They generally act locally in a paracrine or autocrine rather than endocrine manner. [NIH] Cytotoxic: Pertaining to or exhibiting cytotoxicity. [EU] Dementia: An acquired organic mental disorder with loss of intellectual abilities of sufficient severity to interfere with social or occupational functioning. The dysfunction is multifaceted and involves memory, behavior, personality, judgment, attention, spatial relations, language, abstract thought, and other executive functions. The intellectual decline is usually progressive, and initially spares the level of consciousness. [NIH] Dendritic: 1. branched like a tree. 2. pertaining to or possessing dendrites. [EU]
Dysplasia: Abnormality of development; in pathology, alteration in size, shape, and organization of adult cells. [EU] Endocytosis: Cellular uptake of extracellular materials within membranelimited vacuoles or microvesicles. Endosomes play a central role in endocytosis. [NIH] Enzyme: A protein molecule that catalyses chemical reactions of other substances without itself being destroyed or altered upon completion of the reactions. Enzymes are classified according to the recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee of the International Union of Biochemistry. Each enzyme is assigned a recommended name and an Enzyme Commission (EC) number. They are divided into six main groups; oxidoreductases, transferases, hydrolases, lyases, isomerases, and ligases. [EU] Epidemic: Occurring suddenly in numbers clearly in excess of normal expectancy; said especially of infectious diseases but applied also to any disease, injury, or other health-related event occurring in such outbreaks. [EU] Epitopes: Sites on an antigen that interact with specific antibodies. [NIH] Exogenous: Developed or originating outside the organism, as exogenous disease. [EU] Extracorporeal: Situated or occurring outside the body. [EU] Fistula: An abnormal passage or communication, usually between two internal organs, or leading from an internal organ to the surface of the body; frequently designated according to the organs or parts with which it
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communicates, as anovaginal, brochocutaneous, hepatopleural, pulmonoperitoneal, rectovaginal, urethrovaginal, and the like. Such passages are frequently created experimentally for the purpose of obtaining body secretions for physiologic study. [EU] Fluconazole: Triazole antifungal agent that is used to treat oropharyngeal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis in AIDS. [NIH] Fluorescence: The property of emitting radiation while being irradiated. The radiation emitted is usually of longer wavelength than that incident or absorbed, e.g., a substance can be irradiated with invisible radiation and emit visible light. X-ray fluorescence is used in diagnosis. [NIH] Ganglioglioma: Rare indolent tumors comprised of neoplastic glial and neuronal cells which occur primarily in children and young adults. Benign lesions tend to be associated with long survival unless the tumor degenerates into a histologically malignant form. They tend to occur in the optic nerve and white matter of the brain and spinal cord. [NIH] Genitourinary: Pertaining to the genital and urinary organs; urogenital; urinosexual. [EU] Genotype: The genetic constitution of the individual; the characterization of the genes. [NIH] Giardiasis: An infection of the small intestine caused by the flagellated protozoan giardia lamblia. It is spread via contaminated food and water and by direct person-to-person contact. [NIH] Granule: A small pill made from sucrose. [EU] Hematocrit: Measurement of the volume of packed red cells in a blood specimen by centrifugation. The procedure is performed using a tube with graduated markings or with automated blood cell counters. It is used as an indicator of erythrocyte status in disease. For example, anemia shows a low hematocrit, polycythemia, high values. [NIH] Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine. [NIH] Hemoglobinopathies: A group of inherited disorders characterized by structural alterations within the hemoglobin molecule. [NIH] Hemorrhage: Bleeding or escape of blood from a vessel. [NIH] Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver. [EU] Herpes: Any inflammatory skin disease caused by a herpesvirus and characterized by the formation of clusters of small vesicles. When used alone, the term may refer to herpes simplex or to herpes zoster. [EU] Hybridization: The genetic process of crossbreeding to produce a hybrid. Hybrid nucleic acids can be formed by nucleic acid hybridization of DNA and RNA molecules. Protein hybridization allows for hybrid proteins to be
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formed from polypeptide chains. [NIH] Hydrocephalus: A condition marked by dilatation of the cerebral ventricles, most often occurring secondarily to obstruction of the cerebrospinal fluid pathways, and accompanied by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull; the fluid is usually under increased pressure, but occasionally may be normal or nearly so. It is typically characterized by enlargement of the head, prominence of the forehead, brain atrophy, mental deterioration, and convulsions; may be congenital or acquired; and may be of sudden onset (acute h.) or be slowly progressive (chronic or primary b.). [EU]
Hyperbilirubinemia: Pathologic process consisting of an abnormal increase in the amount of bilirubin in the circulating blood, which may result in jaundice. [NIH] Hypertension: Persistently high arterial blood pressure. Various criteria for its threshold have been suggested, ranging from 140 mm. Hg systolic and 90 mm. Hg diastolic to as high as 200 mm. Hg systolic and 110 mm. Hg diastolic. Hypertension may have no known cause (essential or idiopathic h.) or be associated with other primary diseases (secondary h.). [EU] Hypothyroidism: Deficiency of thyroid activity. In adults, it is most common in women and is characterized by decrease in basal metabolic rate, tiredness and lethargy, sensitivity to cold, and menstrual disturbances. If untreated, it progresses to full-blown myxoedema. In infants, severe hypothyroidism leads to cretinism. In juveniles, the manifestations are intermediate, with less severe mental and developmental retardation and only mild symptoms of the adult form. When due to pituitary deficiency of thyrotropin secretion it is called secondary hypothyroidism. [EU] Hypoxia: Reduction of oxygen supply to tissue below physiological levels despite adequate perfusion of the tissue by blood. [EU] Immunity: The condition of being immune; the protection against infectious disease conferred either by the immune response generated by immunization or previous infection or by other nonimmunologic factors (innate i.). [EU] Immunoassay: Immunochemical assay or detection of a substance by serologic or immunologic methods. Usually the substance being studied serves as antigen both in antibody production and in measurement of antibody by the test substance. [NIH] Immunogenic: Producing immunity; evoking an immune response. [EU] Immunohistochemistry: Histochemical localization of immunoreactive substances using labeled antibodies as reagents. [NIH] Induction: The act or process of inducing or causing to occur, especially the production of a specific morphogenetic effect in the developing embryo
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through the influence of evocators or organizers, or the production of anaesthesia or unconsciousness by use of appropriate agents. [EU] Infantile: Pertaining to an infant or to infancy. [EU] Infarction: 1. the formation of an infarct. 2. an infarct. [EU] Intermittent: Occurring at separated intervals; having periods of cessation of activity. [EU] Kinetic: Pertaining to or producing motion. [EU] Lobe: A more or less well-defined portion of any organ, especially of the brain, lungs, and glands. Lobes are demarcated by fissures, sulci, connective tissue, and by their shape. [EU] Lytic: 1. pertaining to lysis or to a lysin. 2. producing lysis. [EU] Malformation: A morphologic defect resulting from an intrinsically abnormal developmental process. [EU] Mediator: An object or substance by which something is mediated, such as (1) a structure of the nervous system that transmits impulses eliciting a specific response; (2) a chemical substance (transmitter substance) that induces activity in an excitable tissue, such as nerve or muscle; or (3) a substance released from cells as the result of the interaction of antigen with antibody or by the action of antigen with a sensitized lymphocyte. [EU] Membrane: A thin layer of tissue which covers a surface, lines a cavity or divides a space or organ. [EU] Meningitis: Inflammation of the meninges. When it affects the dura mater, the disease is termed pachymeningitis; when the arachnoid and pia mater are involved, it is called leptomeningitis, or meningitis proper. [EU] Microorganism: A microscopic organism; those of medical interest include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. [EU] Microscopy: The application of microscope magnification to the study of materials that cannot be properly seen by the unaided eye. [NIH] Midwifery: The practice of assisting women in childbirth. [NIH] Molecular: Of, pertaining to, or composed of molecules : a very small mass of matter. [EU] Motility: The ability to move spontaneously. [EU] Mutagenesis: Process of generating genetic mutations. It may occur spontaneously or be induced by mutagens. [NIH] Mycobacterium: An organism of the genus Mycobacterium. [EU] Myocarditis: Inflammation of the myocardium; inflammation of the muscular walls of the heart. [EU] Neonatal: Pertaining to the first four weeks after birth. [EU]
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Nephropathy: Disease of the kidneys. [EU] Neurosurgery: A surgical specialty concerned with the treatment of diseases and disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral and sympathetic nervous system. [NIH] Neutrophil: Having an affinity for neutral dyes. [EU] Ophthalmology: A surgical specialty concerned with the structure and function of the eye and the medical and surgical treatment of its defects and diseases. [NIH] Organelles: Specific particles of membrane-bound organized living substances present in eukaryotic cells, such as the mitochondria; the golgi apparatus; endoplasmic reticulum; lysomomes; plastids; and vacuoles. [NIH] Otitis: Inflammation of the ear, which may be marked by pain, fever, abnormalities of hearing, hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. [EU] Ototoxic: Having a deleterious effect upon the eighth nerve, or upon the organs of hearing and balance. [EU] Oxygenation: The process of supplying, treating, or mixing with oxygen. No:1245 - oxygenation the process of supplying, treating, or mixing with oxygen. [EU] Pathogen: Any disease-producing microorganism. [EU] Pathologic: 1. indicative of or caused by a morbid condition. 2. pertaining to pathology (= branch of medicine that treats the essential nature of the disease, especially the structural and functional changes in tissues and organs of the body caused by the disease). [EU] Penis: The male organ of copulation and of urinary excretion, comprising a root, body, and extremity, or glans penis. The root is attached to the descending portions of the pubic bone by the crura, the latter being the extremities of the corpora cavernosa, and beneath them the corpus spongiosum, through which the urethra passes. The glans is covered with mucous membrane and ensheathed by the prepuce, or foreskin. The penis is homologous with the clitoris in the female. [EU] Phagocytosis: Endocytosis of particulate material, such as microorganisms or cell fragments. The material is taken into the cell in membrane-bound vesicles (phagosomes) that originate as pinched off invaginations of the plasma membrane. Phagosomes fuse with lysosomes, forming phagolysosomes in which the engulfed material is killed and digested. [EU] Porphyria: A pathological state in man and some lower animals that is often due to genetic factors, is characterized by abnormalities of porphyrin metabolism, and results in the excretion of large quantities of porphyrins in the urine and in extreme sensitivity to light. [EU]
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Postnatal: Occurring after birth, with reference to the newborn. [EU] Precursor: Something that precedes. In biological processes, a substance from which another, usually more active or mature substance is formed. In clinical medicine, a sign or symptom that heralds another. [EU] Prenatal: Existing or occurring before birth, with reference to the fetus. [EU] Prophylaxis: The prevention of disease; preventive treatment. [EU] Prostate: A gland in males that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra. It secretes a substance that liquifies coagulated semen. It is situated in the pelvic cavity behind the lower part of the pubic symphysis, above the deep layer of the triangular ligament, and rests upon the rectum. [NIH] Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate. [EU] Protease: Proteinase (= any enzyme that catalyses the splitting of interior peptide bonds in a protein). [EU] Proteins: Polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. The specific sequence of amino acids determines the shape and function of the protein. [NIH]
Pulmonary: Pertaining to the lungs. [EU] Receptor: 1. a molecular structure within a cell or on the surface characterized by (1) selective binding of a specific substance and (2) a specific physiologic effect that accompanies the binding, e.g., cell-surface receptors for peptide hormones, neurotransmitters, antigens, complement fragments, and immunoglobulins and cytoplasmic receptors for steroid hormones. 2. a sensory nerve terminal that responds to stimuli of various kinds. [EU] Recombinant: 1. a cell or an individual with a new combination of genes not found together in either parent; usually applied to linked genes. [EU] Resection: Excision of a portion or all of an organ or other structure. [EU] Salmonella: A genus of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that utilizes citrate as a sole carbon source. It is pathogenic for humans, causing enteric fevers, gastroenteritis, and bacteremia. Food poisoning is the most common clinical manifestation. Organisms within this genus are separated on the basis of antigenic characteristics, sugar fermentation patterns, and bacteriophage susceptibility. [NIH] Sclerosis: A induration, or hardening; especially hardening of a part from inflammation and in diseases of the interstitial substance. The term is used chiefly for such a hardening of the nervous system due to hyperplasia of the connective tissue or to designate hardening of the blood vessels. [EU] Secretion: 1. the process of elaborating a specific product as a result of the activity of a gland; this activity may range from separating a specific substance of the blood to the elaboration of a new chemical substance. 2. any
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substance produced by secretion. [EU] Serum: The clear portion of any body fluid; the clear fluid moistening serous membranes. 2. blood serum; the clear liquid that separates from blood on clotting. 3. immune serum; blood serum from an immunized animal used for passive immunization; an antiserum; antitoxin, or antivenin. [EU] Spectrum: A charted band of wavelengths of electromagnetic vibrations obtained by refraction and diffraction. By extension, a measurable range of activity, such as the range of bacteria affected by an antibiotic (antibacterial s.) or the complete range of manifestations of a disease. [EU] Squamous: Scaly, or platelike. [EU] Substrate: A substance upon which an enzyme acts. [EU] Syphilis: A contagious venereal disease caused by the spirochete treponema pallidum. [NIH] Systemic: Pertaining to or affecting the body as a whole. [EU] Teratogenic: Tending to produce anomalies of formation, or teratism (= anomaly of formation or development : condition of a monster). [EU] Testicular: Pertaining to a testis. [EU] Thalidomide: A pharmaceutical agent originally introduced as a nonbarbiturate hypnotic, but withdrawn from the market because of its known tetratogenic effects. It has been reintroduced and used for a number of immunological and inflammatory disorders. Thalidomide displays immunosuppresive and anti-angiogenic activity. It inhibits release of tumor necrosis factor alpha from monocytes, and modulates other cytokine action. [NIH]
Tolerance: 1. the ability to endure unusually large doses of a drug or toxin. 2. acquired drug tolerance; a decreasing response to repeated constant doses of a drug or the need for increasing doses to maintain a constant response. [EU]
Toxicity: The quality of being poisonous, especially the degree of virulence of a toxic microbe or of a poison. [EU] Toxicology: The science concerned with the detection, chemical composition, and pharmacologic action of toxic substances or poisons and the treatment and prevention of toxic manifestations. [NIH] Ubiquinone: A lipid-soluble benzoquinone which is involved in electron transport in mitochondrial preparations. The compound occurs in the majority of aerobic organisms, from bacteria to higher plants and animals. [NIH]
Vaccination: The introduction of vaccine into the body for the purpose of inducing immunity. Coined originally to apply to the injection of smallpox vaccine, the term has come to mean any immunizing procedure in which
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vaccine is injected. [EU] Vaccine: A suspension of attenuated or killed microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, or rickettsiae), administered for the prevention, amelioration or treatment of infectious diseases. [EU] Varicella: Chicken pox. [EU] Vascular: Pertaining to blood vessels or indicative of a copious blood supply. [EU] Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity within a group or species of microorganisms or viruses as indicated by case fatality rates and/or the ability of the organism to invade the tissues of the host. [NIH] Vitreous: Glasslike or hyaline; often used alone to designate the vitreous body of the eye (corpus vitreum). [EU] Zoonoses: Diseases of non-human animals that may be transmitted to man or may be transmitted from man to non-human animals. [NIH]
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CHAPTER 5. PATENTS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview You can learn about innovations relating to toxoplasmosis by reading recent patents and patent applications. Patents can be physical innovations (e.g. chemicals, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment) or processes (e.g. treatments or diagnostic procedures). The United States Patent and Trademark Office defines a patent as a grant of a property right to the inventor, issued by the Patent and Trademark Office.24 Patents, therefore, are intellectual property. For the United States, the term of a new patent is 20 years from the date when the patent application was filed. If the inventor wishes to receive economic benefits, it is likely that the invention will become commercially available to patients with toxoplasmosis within 20 years of the initial filing. It is important to understand, therefore, that an inventor’s patent does not indicate that a product or service is or will be commercially available to patients with toxoplasmosis. The patent implies only that the inventor has “the right to exclude others from making, using, offering for sale, or selling” the invention in the United States. While this relates to U.S. patents, similar rules govern foreign patents. In this chapter, we show you how to locate information on patents and their inventors. If you find a patent that is particularly interesting to you, contact the inventor or the assignee for further information.
24Adapted
from The U. S. Patent and Trademark Office: http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/doc/general/whatis.htm.
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Patents on Toxoplasmosis By performing a patent search focusing on toxoplasmosis, you can obtain information such as the title of the invention, the names of the inventor(s), the assignee(s) or the company that owns or controls the patent, a short abstract that summarizes the patent, and a few excerpts from the description of the patent. The abstract of a patent tends to be more technical in nature, while the description is often written for the public. Full patent descriptions contain much more information than is presented here (e.g. claims, references, figures, diagrams, etc.). We will tell you how to obtain this information later in the chapter. The following is an example of the type of information that you can expect to obtain from a patent search on toxoplasmosis: ·
Method of using P35 antigen of toxoplasma gondii in distinguishing acute from chronic toxoplasmosis Inventor(s): Maine; Gregory T. (Gurnee, IL), Hunt; Jeffrey C. (Mundelein, IL), Brojanac; Susan (Brookfield, WI), Sheu; Michael Jyh-Tsing (Gurnee, IL), Chovan; Linda E. (Kenosha, WI), Tyner; Joan D. (Beach Park, IL), Howard; Lawrence V. (Libertyville, IL), Parmley; Stephen F. (San Jose, CA), Remington; Jack S. (Menlo Park, CA), Araujo; Fausto (Palo Alto, CA), Suzuki; Yashuhiro (Menlo Park, CA), Li; Shuli (San Jose, CA) Assignee(s): Abbott Laboratories (Abbott Park, IL) Patent Number: 6,221,619 Date filed: April 30, 1999 Abstract: The present invention relates to combinations or mixtures of antigens which may be used in the detection of IgM and/or IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii as well as to the P35 antigen which may be used to distinguish acute from chronic toxoplasmosis. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to methods of using these combinations of antigens, antibodies raised against these combinations of antigens or against the novel P29 antigen thereof, as well as kits and vaccines containing the antigens present in the combinations. Excerpt(s): The detection of T. gondii specific antibodies and determination of antibody titer are important tools used in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. The most widely used serologic tests for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis are the Sabin-Feldman dye test (Sabin, A. B. and Feldman, H. A. (1948) Science 108, 660-663), the indirect hemagglutination (IHA) test (Jacobs, L. and Lunde, M. (1957) J. Parasitol. 43, 308-314), the IFA test (Walton, B. C. et al. (1966) Am. J. Trop. Med. Hyg. 15, 149-152), the agglutination test (Fondation Merieux, Serologie de
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I'Infection Toxoplasmique en Particulier a Son Debut: Methodes et Interpretation des Resultants, Lyon, 182 pp. (1975)) and the ELISA (Naot, Y. and Remington, J. S. (1980) J. Infect. Dis. 142, 757-766). The ELISA test is one the easiest tests to perform, and many automated serologic tests for the detection of Toxoplasma specific IgM and IgG are commercially available. ... Additionally, it should be noted that the presence of IgG antibodies in a single sample of serum is sufficient to establish that the patient has been infected but does not give an indication as to when the infection occurred. In the United States, there is no systematic serological screening program in pregnant women, whereas in countries such as France and Austria, sera are obtained at regular intervals throughout gestation in women who are seronegative when first tested. In the United States, a decision regarding whether the woman was recently infected, thereby placing her fetus at risk, is often made from results in a single sample of serum. However, it is critical in pregnant women to determine as accurately as possible if they acquired their infection just prior to or during gestation. For this reason, the presence of IgG antibodies in a pregnant woman often leads to additional serological testing to attempt to determine if the infection was acquired during pregnancy or in the distant past (Remington et al., 1995, Toxoplasmosis, 4.sup.th ed., Coord. Ed., Remington, J. S., W. B. Saunders, Philadelphia, Pa.). of the recommended additional serological tests, those that demonstrate the presence of IgM antibodies are most frequently used. However, since IgM antibodies may remain detectable for more than one year after initial infection, demonstration of these antibodies cannot be used to prove recently acquired infection (Liesebfeld et al., Journal of Clinical Microbiology 35:174-78 (1997); Wilson et al., Journal of Clinical Microbiology 35:3112-15 (1997); Wong et al., Clinical Infectious Diseases 18:853-62 (1994)). Because accurate diagnosis of the recently acquired infection in pregnant women is important for clinical management of both the mother and her fetus, a search has continued for better diagnostic methods (Remington et al., 1995, Toxoplasmosis, 4.sup.th ed., Coord. Ed., J. S. Remington, W. B. Saunders, Philadelphia, Pa.; Wong et al., supra). ... The present invention also includes a method for distinguishing between acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in a patient suspected of having either acute or chronic toxoplasmosis. This method comprises the steps of: a) contacting a test sample, from the patient, with a composition comprising amino acids 1-135 of P35; and b) detecting the presence of IgG antibodies, presence of the IgG antibodies indicating acute toxoplasmosis in the patient and lack of the IgG antibodies indicating chronic toxoplasmosis in the patient. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06221619__
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·
Medicaments for the treatment of toxoplasmosis Inventor(s): Hudson; Alan Thomas (Kent, GB2) Assignee(s): Glaxo Wellcome Inc. (Research Triangle Park, NC) Patent Number: 5,856,362 Date filed: June 6, 1995 Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of 2-›4-(4chlorophenyl)cyclohexyl!-3-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone or a physiologically acceptable salt or other physiologically funtional derivative thereof for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of toxoplasmosis in animals, to pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of toxoplasmosis, comprising said compound as active ingredient and to a method of treating or preventing toxoplasmosis in an animal which comprises administering to said animal an effective amount of said compound. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to the treatment of toxoplasmosis. More particularly the invention is concerned with the use of 2-›4-(4-chlorophenyl)cyclohexyl!-3-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone and physiologically acceptable salts and physiologically functional derivatives thereof in treating toxoplasmosis, the use of said compound for the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of toxoplasmosis, and novel dosage forms containing said compound. ... Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic organism which occurs in a wide range of animals, especially warm-blooded animals i.e. mammals, e.g. cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, dogs, cats and humans, and birds, e.g. poultry. In general this organism is considered to be non-pathogenic, and infection remains latent but in certain circumstances it can give rise to an acute illness (toxoplasmosis) which is often fatal. Thus, for example T. gondii is associated with serious disease in young children and in immunocompromised hosts. In particular, transplant patients are at risk from infection with T. gondii parasites introduced in the donated organ. In another group of immunocompromised patients, those with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) toxoplasmosis is associated with life-threatening encephalitis. Other immunocompromised patients at risk include those being treated with immunosuppressive drugs in cancer chemotherapy. ... Infection with T. gondii during early pregnancy may lead to foetal death or abnormality, whilst congenital infection during late pregnancy is associated with eye disease which may subsequently appear in early adulthood. In animal husbandry T. gondii frequently gives rise to foetal death in pregnant sheep. Felids (including the domestic cat) are the definitive hosts of T. gondii and a common source of human toxoplasmosis, via infective stages in the faeces.
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Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05856362__ ·
Treatment for toxoplasmosis Inventor(s): Remington; Jack S. (Menlo Park, CA), Araujo; Fausto G. (Palo Alto, CA) Assignee(s): Palo Alto Medical Foundation (Palo Alto, CA) Patent Number: 5,529,994 Date filed: February 28, 1994 Abstract: A method of reducing the severity of toxoplasmosis resulting from infection of a patient with Toxoplasma gondii by administering to a patient in need of such treatment, either after infection or before exposure to infection, a therapeutically effective amount of a compound that is a spiropiperidyl derivative of rifamycin S, wherein the derivative comprises an imidazole ring that includes carbons at positions 3 and 4 of the rifamycin ring, the carbon at position 2 of the imidazole ring also being a ring carbon at position 4 of a piperidine ring system, thereby forming a spiropiperidyl ring system, the spiropiperidyl ring system optionally comprising a lower hydrocarbon substituent on the nitrogen of the piperidine. Excerpt(s): Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasitic protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii. In humans, the disease is traditionally associated with the developing fetus in whom it can cause severe neurological problems manifesting as hydrocephaly, mental retardation and/or blindness [1, 2]. In healthy adults, the disease is typically mild, producing few if any symptoms. In immunocompromised adults, however, the parasite can cause severe or even fatal disease [3, 4, 5]. The disease also occurs in other mammals and is a leading cause of spontaneous abortion in sheep. ... In the past two decades, toxoplasmosis has dramatically increased in a relatively new group of patients who are in some way immunodeficient as a result of post-transplantation therapy [5, 9, 10, 22], neoplastic disease [11, 12, 13, 22] or, most recently, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) [3, 4, 5]. In such immunodeficient patients, the parasite can cause a disseminated, potentially fatal form of the disease [5, 22, 27]. ... Typical AIDS patients with toxoplasmosis exhibit signs referable to the central nervous system as the first symptom of the disease (reviewed in [22]), as one of the tissues most affected by the parasite is the brain, where massive numbers of parasites and of tissue cysts can be found. Infection is not limited to the brain, however, and parasites and tissue cysts can be found throughout the body [11]. The typical routine for diagnosis includes serology, computed tomography,
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magnetic resonance imaging and/or brain biopsy [1, 15, 16]. Of these, the only definitive route to diagnosis is the brain biopsy as this enables the direct visualization of the parasite, using immunoperoxidase staining [17]. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05529994__ ·
Method for treating toxoplasmosis Inventor(s): Marr; J. Joesph (Lake Forest, IL), Krug; Edward C. (Aurora, CO), Berens; Randolph L. (Littleton, CO), Ke; Ou-Yang (Hunan, CN) Assignee(s): Regents of the University of Colorado (Boulder, CO) Patent Number: 5,486,535 Date filed: September 7, 1993 Abstract: This invention provides a method of treating toxoplasmosis in a mammal by administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective dose of an alkyl derivative of qinghaosu. In another embodiment, this invention provides a method for inhibiting the growth of parasites of the suborder Eimeriorina, particularly members of the genus Toxoplasma, by administration of a growth inhibitory level of an alkyl derivative of ginghaosu. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a method of inhibiting the growth of strains of Toxoplasma and to a method of treating toxoplasmosis by administration of Qinghaosu or certain of its derivatives. ... Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite, is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. Although benign in normal individuals, it is a serious problem for immune compromised hosts, such as patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and can also cause fetal damage if infection occurs during pregnancy. ... Although the malarial parasite and the toxoplasmosis parasite are both protozoans of the order Eucoccidiorida, the life cycles of these organisms are significantly different. The differences in life cycle between Toxoplasma and Plasmodium are such that a drug that targets a specific stage in one parasite will not necessarily work against the other parasite. Qinghaosu is one such drug that is reported to be specific for the erythrocytic stage of Plasmodium, but has no effect on the liver (exoerythrocytic) stage. One would not expect QHS to work against Toxoplasma because the QHS susceptible life cycle stage in Plasmodium is lacking in Toxoplasma. The presence of a comparable stage of the life cycle is more important than phylogenetic proximity to provide sufficient cause to assume susceptibility to the same compound.
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Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05486535__ ·
Toxoplasmosis factor and production of same Inventor(s): Gaafar; Hassan A. (Voorheesville, NY), Grimwood; Brian G. (Delmar, NY) Assignee(s): Research Corporation (New York, NY) Patent Number: 4,564,592 Date filed: January 21, 1983 Abstract: A vaccine for the prevention of congenital Toxoplasmosis and methods for its production. Excerpt(s): Toxoplasmosis is a ubiquitous infection in nature. It is characterized as a severe generalized or CNS granulomatous disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Asymptomatic infections are common; serologic surveys show that worldwide 25-50% of adult populations are infected and have detectable antibodies to the etiologic agent. ... Congenital infection, on the other hand, can be devastating. In animals, primary infection during pregnancy results in abortion or low fertility. In humans the clinical manifestations of congenital toxoplasmosis appear to be related to the trimester of pregnancy during which the mother acquired the infection. Infection during the first trimester is commonly associated with stillbirth, perinatal death, or the more severe forms of congenital toxoplasmosis. Infection during the third trimester usually results in mild or subclinical infection. ... This clinical picture, together with the observation that Toxoplasma gondii trophozoites are rarely isolated from aborted fetuses, suggests that congenital toxoplasmosis syndromes may occur when the fetus is exposed either to the trophozoites and/or to a toxic substance produced by the infection. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04564592__
·
Process for the preparation of toxoplasmas for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, and preparations thus obtained Inventor(s): Trouyez; G/e/ rard (Charbonnieres les Bains, FR) Assignee(s): Biomerieux (Charbonnieres les Bains, FR) Patent Number: 4,480,043 Date filed: May 12, 1981 Abstract: The invention relates to a process for obtaining preparations of toxoplasmas, improved for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis by direct
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agglutination, said process comprising, in a first step, the inoculation in mice of a mixture of toxoplasmas and of sarcomatous cells, in a second step the inoculation in other mice of a mixture of sarcomatous cells infected with toxoplasmas coming from the mice of the first step and of non-infected sarcomatous cells, and finally the collection of the ascitic exsudate of these latter mice from 48 to 72 hours after inoculation. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a process for preparing toxoplasmas, i.e. suspensions of toxoplasmas intended for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis by direct agglutination. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04480043__
Patent Applications on Toxoplasmosis As of December 2000, U.S. patent applications are open to public viewing.25 Applications are patent requests which have yet to be granted (the process to achieve a patent can take several years).
Keeping Current In order to stay informed about patents and patent applications dealing with toxoplasmosis, you can access the U.S. Patent Office archive via the Internet at no cost to you. This archive is available at the following Web address: http://www.uspto.gov/main/patents.htm. Under “Services,” click on “Search Patents.” You will see two broad options: (1) Patent Grants, and (2) Patent Applications. To see a list of granted patents, perform the following steps: Under “Patent Grants,” click “Quick Search.” Then, type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “Term 1” box. After clicking on the search button, scroll down to see the various patents which have been granted to date on toxoplasmosis. You can also use this procedure to view pending patent applications concerning toxoplasmosis. Simply go back to the following Web address: http://www.uspto.gov/main/patents.htm. Under “Services,” click on “Search Patents.” Select “Quick Search” under “Patent Applications.” Then proceed with the steps listed above.
25
This has been a common practice outside the United States prior to December 2000.
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Vocabulary Builder Abortion: 1. the premature expulsion from the uterus of the products of conception - of the embryo, or of a nonviable fetus. The four classic symptoms, usually present in each type of abortion, are uterine contractions, uterine haemorrhage, softening and dilatation of the cervix, and presentation or expulsion of all or part of the products of conception. 2. premature stoppage of a natural or a pathological process. [EU] Foetal: Of or pertaining to a fetus; pertaining to in utero development after the embryonic period. [EU] Gestation: The period of development of the young in viviparous animals, from the time of fertilization of the ovum until birth. [EU] Medicament: A medicinal substance or agent. [EU] Nitrogen: An element with the atomic symbol N, atomic number 7, and atomic weight 14. Nitrogen exists as a diatomic gas and makes up about 78% of the earth's atmosphere by volume. It is a constituent of proteins and nucleic acids and found in all living cells. [NIH] Perinatal: Pertaining to or occurring in the period shortly before and after birth; variously defined as beginning with completion of the twentieth to twenty-eighth week of gestation and ending 7 to 28 days after birth. [EU] Tomography: The recording of internal body images at a predetermined plane by means of the tomograph; called also body section roentgenography. [EU]
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CHAPTER 6. BOOKS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview This chapter provides bibliographic book references relating to toxoplasmosis. You have many options to locate books on toxoplasmosis. The simplest method is to go to your local bookseller and inquire about titles that they have in stock or can special order for you. Some patients, however, feel uncomfortable approaching their local booksellers and prefer online sources (e.g. www.amazon.com and www.bn.com). In addition to online booksellers, excellent sources for book titles on toxoplasmosis include the Combined Health Information Database and the National Library of Medicine. Once you have found a title that interests you, visit your local public or medical library to see if it is available for loan.
Book Summaries: Federal Agencies The Combined Health Information Database collects various book abstracts from a variety of healthcare institutions and federal agencies. To access these summaries, go to http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. You will need to use the “Detailed Search” option. To find book summaries, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language you prefer. For the format option, select “Monograph/Book.” Now type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box. You will only receive results on books. You should check back periodically with this database which is updated every 3 months. The following is a typical result when searching for books on toxoplasmosis: ·
Nutrition et VIH. (French title). [Nutrition and HIV.] Contact: AIDES Federation Nationale, 247 Rue de Belleville, Paris.
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Summary: This brochure describes appropriate eating habits for HIVpositive persons to in order prevent nutritional deficits and cope with AIDS-related illnesses. The first section introduces the general rules of sound nutrition such as eating a variety of foods and drinking adequate amounts of liquid. The second section discusses the daily requirements of food intake such as caloric needs, regular meals, safe and appetizing food preparation, and nutritional supplements. Ways of avoiding toxoplasmosis and other food related infections are discussed. The subsequent section suggests nutritional strategies to cope with weight loss, lack of appetite, diarrhea, chewing and swallowing difficulties, and fever. The medication a patient takes may also require him or her to make dietary modifications. Last, the special nutritional needs of seropositive children in order to prevent growth retardation, weight loss, or obesity are explained. A glossary and brief bibliography are appended.
Book Summaries: Online Booksellers Commercial Internet-based booksellers, such as Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com, offer summaries which have been supplied by each title’s publisher. Some summaries also include customer reviews. Your local bookseller may have access to in-house and commercial databases that index all published books (e.g. Books in PrintÒ). The following have been recently listed with online booksellers as relating to toxoplasmosis (sorted alphabetically by title; follow the hyperlink to view more details at Amazon.com): ·
A clinical study of infectious mononucleosis and toxoplasmosis by Donald Cameron; ISBN: 072360326X; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/072360326X/icongroupi nterna
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Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Scientific Background, Clinical Management and Control by Pierre Ambroise-Thomas (Editor), et al; ISBN: 228759664X; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/228759664X/icongroupi nterna
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Human Toxoplasmosis (Oxford Medical Publications) by Darrel O. HoYen (Editor), Alex W. Joss (Editor); ISBN: 0198547501; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0198547501/icongroupin terna
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·
Ocular toxoplasmosis and pars planitis by T. F. Schlaegel; ISBN: 0808910787; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0808910787/icongroupin terna
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The Coccidia: Eimeria, Isospora, Toxoplasma, and Related Genera. by Datus M. Hammond; ISBN: 0839107323; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0839107323/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis ; ISBN: 3540573054; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/3540573054/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis (NATO Asi Series. Series H. Cell Biology, Vol 78) by Judith E. Smith (Editor); ISBN: 0387573054; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0387573054/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis in Sheep: Review - Cabi Ito by Dubey Towle Cabi, et al (1996); ISBN: 0851985629; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0851985629/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis of Animals and Man by J.P. Dubey, C.P. Beattie (1988); ISBN: 0849346185; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0849346185/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis with special reference to transmission and life cycle of Toxoplasma gondii by Kresten Work; ISBN: 8716007808; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/8716007808/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide by David H. M. Joynson (Editor), T. G. Wreghitt (Editor) (2001); ISBN: 0521443288; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0521443288/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis: Proceedings of the Who Expert Committee of Investigation Geneva 1968 (Technical Report Ser. ; No. 431)) by Who Staff (Editor); ISBN: 9241204311; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/9241204311/icongroupin terna
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The National Library of Medicine Book Index The National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health has a massive database of books published on healthcare and biomedicine. Go to the following Internet site, http://locatorplus.gov/, and then select “Search LOCATORplus.” Once you are in the search area, simply type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box, and select “books only.” From there, results can be sorted by publication date, author, or relevance. The following was recently catalogued by the National Library of Medicine:26 ·
Bibliography of toxoplasmosis and Toxoplasma gondii, by Don E. Eyles and Jacob Karl Frenkel. Author: Eyles, Don E; Year: 1952; [Washington] Federal Security Agency, Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health [1952]
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Chronological reference of zoonoses: Toxoplasma and toxoplasmosis. Author: by E. Ryu; Year: 9999; Taipei: International Laboratory for Zoonoses, 1978-
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Clinical study of infectious mononucleosis and toxoplasmosis, by Donald Cameron and Lena M. MacBean. Author: Cameron, Donald; Year: 1973; Bristol, Wright, 1973; ISBN: 072360326X http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/072360326X/icongroupi nterna
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Congenital toxoplasmosis: scientific background, clinical management and control. Author: Pierre Ambroise-Thomas, Eskild Peterson (eds.); Year: 2000; New York: Springer, 2000; ISBN: 228759664X (softcover: alk. paper) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/228759664X/icongroupi nterna
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Congenital toxoplasmosis. Author: guest editors, Morten Lebech, Eskild Petersen; Year: 1992; Oslo: Scandinavian University Press; Stockholm: Universitetsforlaget/AWI, [1992]
In addition to LOCATORPlus, in collaboration with authors and publishers, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) is adapting biomedical books for the Web. The books may be accessed in two ways: (1) by searching directly using any search term or phrase (in the same way as the bibliographic database PubMed), or (2) by following the links to PubMed abstracts. Each PubMed abstract has a “Books” button that displays a facsimile of the abstract in which some phrases are hypertext links. These phrases are also found in the books available at NCBI. Click on hyperlinked results in the list of books in which the phrase is found. Currently, the majority of the links are between the books and PubMed. In the future, more links will be created between the books and other types of information, such as gene and protein sequences and macromolecular structures. See http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Books.
26
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·
Human toxoplasmosis. Author: edited by Darrel O. Ho-yen and Alex W.L. Joss; Year: 1992; Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 1992; ISBN: 0198547501 http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0198547501/icongroupin terna
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Human toxoplasmosis; proceedings of the conference on clinical aspects and diagnostic problems of toxoplasmosis in paediatrics at the VIII International Congress of Paediatrics, Copenhagen, 1956. Author: Siim, Jørgen Christian, 1915-; Year: 1960; Copenhagen, Munksgaard [1960]
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International Symposium on Toxoplasmosis. Author: promoted by Italian Society Ophthalmology, Italian Hospital Microbiologistes Association, Venetian Region, Treviso's Hospital, Treviso, May 23th, 24th, 25th, 1980; Year: 1980; Parma: Maccari, [1980?]
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Laboratory diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. Author: D.G. Fleck, W. Kwantes; Year: 1980; London: H.M.S.O., c1980; ISBN: 0118871048
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Ocular toxoplasmosis and pars planitis. Author: by T. F. Schlaegel, Jr; Year: 1978; New York: Grune & Stratton, 1978; ISBN: 0808910787 http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0808910787/icongroupin terna
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Ocular toxoplasmosis. Author: Hogan, Michael John, 1907-; Year: 1951; New York, Columbia Univ. Press, 1951
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Procedural guide to the performance of the serology of toxoplasmosis. Author: [a joint effort of Dan F. Palmer ... [et al.]; Year: 1976; Atlanta, Ga.: U.S. Dept. of Health, Education, and Welfare, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control, [1976]
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State of the art toxoplasmosis diagnostic testing and the value of the toxonostika microelisa tests for anti-toxoplasma IgM and IgG. Author: Counter, Erica; Year: 1984; Brussels (Belgium): Medical Media International, c1984
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Study of toxoplasmosis, with special reference to congenital toxoplasmic encephalomyelitis in autopsy material of hydrocephalic fetuses, newborn babies, infants, and young children. Author: McClellan, James Thomas; Year: 1949; [Minneapolis] 1949
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Toxoplasma gondii. Author: edited by U. Gross; Year: 1996; Berlin; New York: Springer, c1996; ISBN: 3540613005 (alk. paper) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/3540613005/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis: a comprehensive clinical guide. Author: edited by David H.M. Joynson and Tim G. Wreghitt; Year: 2001; Cambridge; New York: Cambridge University Press, 2001; ISBN: 0521443288 (hb)
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http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0521443288/icongroupin terna ·
Toxoplasmosis: a protozoan disease of animals and man. Author: Janice Swanson; Year: 1990; Beltsville, Md.: National Agricultural Library, [1990]
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Toxoplasmosis: a summary of the occupational health concern. Author: Erica Counter; Year: 1989; Hamilton, Ont.: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 1989; ISBN: 0660132702
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Toxoplasmosis in man and animals: January 1987 through May 1989, 986 citations. Author: prepared by Fritz P. Gluckstein; Year: 1990; Bethesda, Md.: U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, Reference Section; Washington, D.C.: Supt. of Docs., U.S. G.P.O. [distributor, 1989]
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Toxoplasmosis of animals and man. Author: authors, J.P. Dubey, C.P. Beattie; Year: 1988; Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, c1988; ISBN: 0849346185 http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0849346185/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis, a bibliography of literature, 1956-September, 1960. Comp. by Dorothy Bocker. Author: National Library of Medicine (U.S.); Year: 1960; Washington, Public Health Service, 1960
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Toxoplasmosis, with special reference to transmission and life cycle of Toxoplasma gondii. Author: Work, Kresten; Year: 1971; Copenhagen, Munksgaard, 1971
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Toxoplasmosis, with special reference to uveitis; symposium by the Council for Research in Glaucoma and Allied Diseases, November 20, 21, and 22, 1960. Ed. by A. E. Maumenee. Author: Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Council for Research in Glaucoma and Allied Diseases; Year: 1962; Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1962
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Toxoplasmosis. Author: edited by Judith E. Smith; Year: 1993; Berlin; New York: Springer-Verlag, c1993; ISBN: 3540573054 (alk. paper) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/3540573054/icongroupin terna
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Toxoplasmosis. Author: A.M. Johnson and B.L. Munday; Year: 1985; East Melbourne, Vic., Australia: Published for the Australian Agricultural Council (Standing Committee on Agriculture) by CSIRO Australia, 1985; ISBN: 0643040765 (series)
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Toxoplasmosis; a clinical, serological and histopathological study with special reference to the eye manifestations ... Author: Binkhorst, C. D; Year: 1948; Leiden, Kroese, 1948
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Toxoplasmosis; pathology of neonatal disease, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment, by Jacob Karl Frenkel and Saul Friedlander. Author: Frenkel, Jacob Karl; Year: 1951; [Washington, U. S. Govt. Print. Off., 1951]
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Uveitis and toxoplasmosis. Author: Perkins, Edward S. (Edward Sylvester); Year: 1961; London, Churchill, 1961
Chapters on Toxoplasmosis Frequently, toxoplasmosis will be discussed within a book, perhaps within a specific chapter. In order to find chapters that are specifically dealing with toxoplasmosis, an excellent source of abstracts is the Combined Health Information Database. You will need to limit your search to book chapters and toxoplasmosis using the “Detailed Search” option. Go directly to the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find book chapters, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language you prefer, and the format option “Book Chapter.” By making these selections and typing in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box, you will only receive results on chapters in books. The following is a typical result when searching for book chapters on toxoplasmosis: ·
Auditory System and Related Disorders Source: in Gelfand, S.A. Essentials of Audiology. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. 2001. p. 173-218. Contact: Available from Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001. (800) 782-3488. Fax (212) 947-0108. E-mail:
[email protected]. Price: $49.00 plus shipping and handling. ISBN: 1588900177. Summary: This chapter on the auditory (hearing) system and related disorders is from an undergraduate textbook that deals with audiology and related topics in speech language pathology. The author addresses the nature of various pathologies (problems or diseases), where and when they occur, their major signs and symptoms, how hearing is affected, and the ways they are treated. The author first explains the importance of the case history in diagnosis and patient care. The chapter then covers conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing impairments; tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears); congenital and hereditary disorders; maternal infections, including syphilis, toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV); other influences in the maternal environment; congenital anomalies of the ear, including dysplasia (abnormal development in the anatomical structure);
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syndromes involving the ear and hearing; acquired disorders, including head trauma; outer ear disorders, including impacted cerumen (earwax), foreign bodies, growths and tumors, and infections; middle ear disorders, including bullus myringitis, tympanosclerosis, perforations of the tympanic membrane (eardrum), otitis media (middle ear infection), and otosclerosis (bone disease); surgery to improve or restore hearing, including otosclerosis surgery, tympanoplasy (repair and reconstruction of the eardrum), and surgery for growths and tumors; cochlear disorders, including noise induced hearing loss (NIHL), Meniere's disease, ototoxicity (chemical damage to the ear), infections, perilymphatic fistulas; retrocochlear disorders; auditory neuropathy; central disorders; sudden hearing loss; presbycusis (hearing loss related to aging); Paget's disease (osteitis deformans, a progressive bone disease); obscure auditory dysfunction; and nonorganic hearing loss. 19 figures. 2 tables. 138 references. ·
Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children: Etiology and Pathology Source: in Martin, F.N.; Greer Clark, J., eds. Hearing Care for Children. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn and Bacon. 1996. p. 73-91. Contact: Available from Allyn and Bacon. 160 Gould Street, Needham Heights, MA 02194-2310. (800) 278-3525; Fax (617) 455-7024; E-mail:
[email protected]; http://www.abacon.com. Price: $59.00 plus shipping and handling. ISBN: 0131247026. Summary: This chapter on the etiology and pathology of sensorineural hearing loss is from a textbook that focuses on the provision of hearing care for children with hearing loss. Topics covered include the etiologies of congenital hearing loss, including ototoxic drugs, teratogenic drugs, viral infections (maternal rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, HIV), toxoplasmosis, erythroblastosis fetalis, and prematurity and birth trauma; the etiologies of acquired hearing loss, including bacterial infections, syphilis, viral diseases, neoplastic disorders (cancer), traumatic injury, acoustic trauma, metabolic disorders, and sudden deafness; monitoring dynamic sensorineural hearing loss in children; and medical diagnosis and treatment strategies. The authors emphasize that health care cost containment and the medical and legal implications of missed or delayed diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss in children are critical issues for the pediatric otolaryngologist. 3 tables. 134 references. (AA-M).
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Prevention of Epilepsy Source: in Epilepsies of Childhood. Third Edition. O'Donohoe, N.V. Oxford, England, pp. 304-309, 1994.
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Contact: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Linacre House, Jordan Hill, Oxford, England OX2 8DP. Summary: Prevention of Epilepsy, a book chapter in Epilepsies of Childhood, Third Edition, reviews known preventable causes of epilepsy in infants and children, including genetic, prenatal, perinatal, neonatal, and infectious causes. Genetic factors can act by (1) causing the transmission of a disease, such as tuberous sclerosis or Down's syndrome, of which seizures may be a symptom; or (2) affecting a gene or several genes which appear to alter the individual's convulsive susceptibility. Prenatal infections such as rubella, cytomegalovirus infection, syphilis and toxoplasmosis can damage the brain and cause seizures. Perinatal brain damage, particularly that caused by anoxia, may be an important cause of later epilepsy, although there are few studies available to prove this point. Some studies do show that small-forgestational age infants, infants with late obstetric complications, and those with low 5-minute Apgar scores are at risk of developing later epilepsy. Malnutrition in infancy and possibly even prenatally is linked to problems of intellectual impairment and consequently indirectly to epilepsy. Another possible cause of brain damage and seizures is infection of the central nervous system in infancy and early childhood; bacterial meningitis and parasitic infections such as cysticercosis are particularly significant. Infection is involved in causing one case in five of chronic childhood epilepsy. Other preventable causes include gastroenteritis with dehydration, head trauma, Hemophilus influenza type b, pertussis, and prolonged febrile seizures. Public health education is an important means of prevention, especially in educating adolescents about the risks of alcohol, head injury, and drug abuse. Psychological, social, and economic complications of epilepsy can be prevented through education to combat public fear and prejudice. ·
Human toxoplasmosis Source: New York, NY: Oxford University Press. 1992. 8 pp. Contact: Available from Oxford University Press, 2001 Evans Road, Cary, NC 27513. Telephone: (800) 451-7556 or (919) 677-0977 / fax: (919) 6771303. Summary: This publication is the first appendix of the book Human Toxoplasmosis. The appendix lists questions and answers which are commonly asked in pregnancy concerning toxoplasmosis.
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General Home References In addition to references for toxoplasmosis, you may want a general home medical guide that spans all aspects of home healthcare. The following list is a recent sample of such guides (sorted alphabetically by title; hyperlinks provide rankings, information, and reviews at Amazon.com): · Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases (Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases, 1998) by Carol Turkington, Bonnie Ashby; Library Binding - 384 pages (September 1998), Facts on File, Inc.; ISBN: 0816035121; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0816035121/icongroupinterna · Epidemic! The World of Infectious Disease by Rob Desalle (Editor), American Museum of Natural History; Paperback - 246 pages, 1st edition (September 1999), New Press; ISBN: 1565845463; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1565845463/icongroupinterna · Outbreak Alert: Responding to the Increasing Threat of Infectious Diseases by Jason Eberhart-Phillips, M.D.; Paperback - 292 pages (July 2000), New Harbinger Publications; ISBN: 1572242019; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1572242019/icongroupinterna · Plague Time: How Stealth Infections Are Causing Cancers, Heart Disease, and Other Deadly Ailments by Paul W. Ewald; Hardcover - 288 pages (November 2000), Free Press; ISBN: 0684869004; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0684869004/icongroupinterna
Vocabulary Builder Anatomical: Pertaining to anatomy, or to the structure of the organism. [EU] Antineoplastic: Inhibiting or preventing the development of neoplasms, checking the maturation and proliferation of malignant cells. [EU] Antiviral: Destroying viruses or suppressing their replication. [EU] Aspergillosis: Infections with fungi of the genus aspergillus. [NIH] Autopsy: Postmortem examination of the body. [NIH] Barotrauma: Injury following pressure changes; includes injury to the eustachian tube, ear drum, lung and stomach. [NIH] Bile: An emulsifying agent produced in the liver and secreted into the duodenum. Its composition includes bile acids and salts, cholesterol, and electrolytes. It aids digestion of fats in the duodenum. [NIH] Blastomycosis:
A fungal infection that may appear in two forms: 1) a
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primary lesion characterized by the formation of a small cutaneous nodule and small nodules along the lymphatics that may heal within several months; and 2) chronic granulomatous lesions characterized by thick crusts, warty growths, and unusual vascularity and infection in the middle or upper lobes of the lung. [NIH] Cerumen: The waxlike secretion found within the external meatus of the ear; called also earwax. [EU] Cholera: An acute diarrheal disease endemic in India and Southeast Asia whose causative agent is vibrio cholerae. This condition can lead to severe dehydration in a matter of hours unless quickly treated. [NIH] Cholestasis: Impairment of biliary flow at any level from the hepatocyte to Vater's ampulla. [NIH] Chromosomal: Pertaining to chromosomes. [EU] Clostridium: A genus of motile or nonmotile gram-positive bacteria of the family bacillaceae. Many species have been identified with some being pathogenic. They occur in water, soil, and in the intestinal tract of humans and lower animals. [NIH] Coccidia: A subclass of protozoans commonly parasitic in the epithelial cells of the intestinal tract but also found in the liver and other organs. Its organisms are found in both vertebrates and higher invertebrates and comprise two orders: eimeriida and eucoccidiida. [NIH] Cochlear: Of or pertaining to the cochlea. [EU] Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, generally consisting of conjunctival hyperaemia associated with a discharge. [EU] Contraception: The prevention of conception or impregnation. [EU] Dehydration: The condition that results from excessive loss of body water. Called also anhydration, deaquation and hypohydration. [EU] Deprivation: Loss or absence of parts, organs, powers, or things that are needed. [EU] Diarrhea: Passage of excessively liquid or excessively frequent stools. [NIH] Dizziness: An imprecise term which may refer to a sense of spatial disorientation, motion of the environment, or lightheadedness. [NIH] Echinococcosis: An infection caused by the infestation of the larval form of tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. The liver, lungs, and kidney are the most common areas of infestation. [NIH] Eimeria: A genus of protozoan parasites of the subclass coccidia. Various species are parasitic in the epithelial cells of the liver and intestines of man and other animals. [NIH] Encephalomyelitis: A general term indicating inflammation of the BRAIN
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and spinal cord, often used to indicate an infectious process, but also applicable to a variety of autoimmune and toxic-metabolic conditions. There is significant overlap regarding the usage of this term and encephalitis in the literature. [NIH] Erythromycin: A bacteriostatic antibiotic substance produced by Streptomyces erythreus. Erythromycin A is considered its major active component. In sensitive organisms, it inhibits protein synthesis by binding to 50S ribosomal subunits. This binding process inhibits peptidyl transferase activity and interferes with translocation of amino acids during translation and assembly of proteins. [NIH] Fatigue: The state of weariness following a period of exertion, mental or physical, characterized by a decreased capacity for work and reduced efficiency to respond to stimuli. [NIH] Febrile: Pertaining to or characterized by fever. [EU] Fibrosis: The formation of fibrous tissue; fibroid or fibrous degeneration [EU] Filariasis: Infections with nematodes of the superfamily filarioidea. The presence of living worms in the body is mainly asymptomatic but the death of adult worms leads to granulomatous inflammation and permanent fibrosis. Organisms of the genus Elaeophora infect wild elk and domestic sheep causing ischaemic necrosis of the brain, blindness, and dermatosis of the face. [NIH] Fleas: Parasitic, blood-sucking, wingless insects comprising the order Siphonaptera. [NIH] Gastroenteritis: An acute inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines, characterized by anorexia, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weakness, which has various causes, including food poisoning due to infection with such organisms as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella species; consumption of irritating food or drink; or psychological factors such as anger, stress, and fear. Called also enterogastritis. [EU] Gastrointestinal: Pertaining to or communicating with the stomach and intestine, as a gastrointestinal fistula. [EU] Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver. [EU] Idiopathic: Of the nature of an idiopathy; self-originated; of unknown causation. [EU] Influenza: An acute viral infection involving the respiratory tract. It is marked by inflammation of the nasal mucosa, the pharynx, and conjunctiva, and by headache and severe, often generalized, myalgia. [NIH] Integumentary: Pertaining to or composed of skin. [EU]
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Intoxication: Poisoning, the state of being poisoned. [EU] Ischemia: Deficiency of blood in a part, due to functional constriction or actual obstruction of a blood vessel. [EU] Isospora: A genus of protozoan parasites found in the intestines of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, including man. The oocysts produce two sporocysts, each with four sporozoites. Many species are parasitic in wild and domestic animals. [NIH] Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear. [NIH] Larva: Wormlike or grublike stage, following the egg in the life cycle of insects, worms, and other metamorphosing animals. [NIH] Listeria: A genus of bacteria which may be found in the feces of animals and man, on vegetation, and in silage. Its species are parasitic on cold-blooded and warm-blooded animals, including man. [NIH] Lupus: A form of cutaneous tuberculosis. It is seen predominantly in women and typically involves the nasal, buccal, and conjunctival mucosa. [NIH]
Mononucleosis: The presence of an abnormally large number of mononuclear leucocytes (monocytes) in the blood. The term is often used alone to refer to infectious mononucleosis. [EU] Mycoplasma: A genus of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria bounded by a plasma membrane only. Its organisms are parasites and pathogens, found on the mucous membranes of humans, animals, and birds. [NIH]
Myiasis: The invasion of living tissues of man and other mammals by dipterous larvae. [NIH] Neuropathy: A general term denoting functional disturbances and/or pathological changes in the peripheral nervous system. The etiology may be known e.g. arsenical n., diabetic n., ischemic n., traumatic n.) or unknown. Encephalopathy and myelopathy are corresponding terms relating to involvement of the brain and spinal cord, respectively. The term is also used to designate noninflammatory lesions in the peripheral nervous system, in contrast to inflammatory lesions (neuritis). [EU] Neurotoxins: Toxic substances from microorganisms, plants or animals that interfere with the functions of the nervous system. Most venoms contain neurotoxic substances. Myotoxins are included in this concept. [NIH] Otorhinolaryngology: That branch of medicine concerned with medical and surgical treatment of the head and neck, including the ears, nose and throat. [EU]
Otosclerosis: A pathological condition of the bony labyrinth of the ear, in which there is formation of spongy bone (otospongiosis), especially in front
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of and posterior to the footplate of the stapes; it may cause bony ankylosis of the stapes, resulting in conductive hearing loss. Cochlear otosclerosis may also develop, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. [EU] Paediatric: Of or relating to the care and medical treatment of children; belonging to or concerned with paediatrics. [EU] Parenteral: Not through the alimentary canal but rather by injection through some other route, as subcutaneous, intramuscular, intraorbital, intracapsular, intraspinal, intrasternal, intravenous, etc. [EU] Perforation: 1. the act of boring or piercing through a part. 2. a hole made through a part or substance. [EU] Petroleum: Naturally occurring complex liquid hydrocarbons which, after distillation, yield combustible fuels, petrochemicals, and lubricants. [NIH] Poisoning: A condition or physical state produced by the ingestion, injection or inhalation of, or exposure to a deleterious agent. [NIH] Prejudice: A preconceived judgment made without adequate evidence and not easily alterable by presentation of contrary evidence. [NIH] Presbycusis: Progressive bilateral loss of hearing that occurs in the aged. Syn: senile deafness. [NIH] Sarcoidosis: An idiopathic systemic inflammatory granulomatous disorder comprised of epithelioid and multinucleated giant cells with little necrosis. It usually invades the lungs with fibrosis and may also involve lymph nodes, skin, liver, spleen, eyes, phalangeal bones, and parotid glands. [NIH] Scabies: A contagious dermatitis of humans and various wild and domestic animals caused by the itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, transmitted by close contact, and characterized by a papular eruption over tiny, raised sinuous burrows (cuniculi) produced by digging into the upper layer of the epidermis by the egg-laying female mite, which is accompanied by intense pruritus and sometimes associated with eczema from scratching and secondary bacterial infection. Called also the itch and seven-year itch. [EU] Seroconversion: The change of a serologic test from negative to positive, indicating the development of antibodies in response to infection or immunization. [EU] Sinusitis: Inflammation of a sinus. The condition may be purulent or nonpurulent, acute or chronic. Depending on the site of involvement it is known as ethmoid, frontal, maxillary, or sphenoid sinusitis. [EU] Sporotrichosis: The commonest and least serious of the deep mycoses, characterized by nodular lesions of the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues. It is caused by inhalation of contaminated dust or by infection of a wound. [NIH]
Stomach: An organ of digestion situated in the left upper quadrant of the
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abdomen between the termination of the esophagus and the beginning of the duodenum. [NIH] Teratogens: An agent that causes the production of physical defects in the developing embryo. [NIH] Tinnitus: A noise in the ears, as ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, etc. Such sounds may at times be heard by others than the patient. [EU] Toxin: A poison; frequently used to refer specifically to a protein produced by some higher plants, certain animals, and pathogenic bacteria, which is highly toxic for other living organisms. Such substances are differentiated from the simple chemical poisons and the vegetable alkaloids by their high molecular weight and antigenicity. [EU] Trichinosis: A disease due to infection with trichinella spiralis. It is caused by eating undercooked meat, usually pork. [NIH] Trichuriasis: Infection with nematodes of the genus trichuris, formerly called Trichocephalus. [NIH] Vancomycin: Antibacterial obtained from Streptomyces orientalis. It is a glycopeptide related to ristocetin that inhibits bacterial cell wall assembly and is toxic to kidneys and the inner ear. [NIH] Viruses: Minute infectious agents whose genomes are composed of DNA or RNA, but not both. They are characterized by a lack of independent metabolism and the inability to replicate outside living host cells. [NIH] Yaws: A systemic non-venereal infection of the tropics caused by Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue. [NIH]
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CHAPTER 7. MULTIMEDIA ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview Information on toxoplasmosis can come in a variety of formats. Among multimedia sources, video productions, slides, audiotapes, and computer databases are often available. In this chapter, we show you how to keep current on multimedia sources of information on toxoplasmosis. We start with sources that have been summarized by federal agencies, and then show you how to find bibliographic information catalogued by the National Library of Medicine. If you see an interesting item, visit your local medical library to check on the availability of the title.
Video Recordings Most diseases do not have a video dedicated to them. If they do, they are often rather technical in nature. An excellent source of multimedia information on toxoplasmosis is the Combined Health Information Database. You will need to limit your search to “video recording” and “toxoplasmosis” using the “Detailed Search” option. Go directly to the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find video productions, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language you prefer, and the format option “Videorecording (videotape, videocassette, etc.).” By making these selections and typing “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box, you will only receive results on video productions. The following is a typical result when searching for video recordings on toxoplasmosis:
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·
Toxoplasmosis in AIDS Patients Contact: Ortho - McNeil Pharmaceutical Incorporated, PO Box 300, Raritan, NJ, 08869-0602, (908) 218-6000, http://www.ortho-mcneil.com. Summary: This videorecording presents information designed to help the clinician correctly diagnose and treat toxoplasmosis, the most frequent central nervous system opportunistic infection, in Persons with AIDS (PWA's). The speaker, Dr. Jack Remington of Stanford University, discusses the etiology, incidence, clinical signs and symptoms, and diagnostic criteria for toxoplasmic encephalitis. He continues on to present his recommendations for diagnosis and effective management of the disease and concludes with a projection on the future treatment directions for it.
·
AIDS: The Implications for Pharmacy Practice and the Role of the Pharmacist Contact: Florida Pharmacy Education and Research Foundation, 610 N Adams St, Tallahassee, FL, 32301, (904) 222-2400. Summary: This videorecording presents a two-hour teleconference used in a continuing education program for Florida pharmacists. Moderated by Max Lemberger, it features four speakers who give individual presentations, followed by a panel question-and-answer session. The main speaker is Jerry Jean Stambaugh, a pharmacists who discusses experimental drugs and treatments used in the care of Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). She outlines the symptoms and progression of various opportunistic infections, including pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), fungal infections, herpes zoster, diarrhea, and toxoplasmosis. Among the drugs discussed are retrovir and pentamidine; she alludes to clinical trials for certain drugs. Jim Powers from the Florida Pharmacy Association gives a legislative update, discussing pending legislation that affects pharmacists. Following a taped presentation by Stewart Morris, president of a Florida State society of pharmacists, Rachael Dykes, a nurse, gives a general background session on AIDS. She discusses the impossibility of casual contact transmission and routes through which the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be transmitted. Methods of HIV prevention are explained and universal precautions discussed. The final speaker, Edward Jaffrey, a lawyer, looks at legal issues surrounding the epidemic.
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Audio Recordings The Combined Health Information Database contains abstracts on audio productions. To search CHID, go directly to the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find audio productions, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language you prefer, and the format option “Sound Recordings.” By making these selections and typing “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box, you will only receive results on sound recordings (again, most diseases do not have results, so do not expect to find many). The following is a typical result when searching for sound recordings on toxoplasmosis: ·
AIDS and the Internist -- Part II Contact: California Medical Association, Audio Digest Foundation, 1577 E Chevy Chase Dr, Glendale, CA, 91206, (213) 245-8505. Summary: This sound recording contains the transcripts of talks in the second part of the program on the role of the internist in managing patients with HIV infection. In this segment, Dr. Constance Wofsy discusses the epidemiology and concerns of HIV infection in women. Transmission and diagnosis are examined; gynecological issues and pregnancy are explored. Dr. Harry Hollander discusses neurological syndromes and dementia in HIV disease. He presents information on AIDS dementia complex, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, toxoplasmosis, cerebral ischemia, vacuolar myelopathy, tropical spastic parapesis and CMV polyradiculopathy. Meningitis and HIV-related neuropathies are also discussed.
·
AIDS: Disease, Patient, Internist Contact: California Medical Association, Audio Digest Foundation, 1577 E Chevy Chase Dr, Glendale, CA, 91206, (213) 245-8505. Summary: This sound recording, along with accompanying pre-test and post-test questions, comprises part of an ongoing series of educational activities. The first speaker, Michael S. Gottlieb, of Allergy and Immunology Associates in Santa Monica, CA, discusses real and perceived risks of Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. He points out that there are three important routes of transmission: Sexual, parenteral, and perinatal. The likelihood of transmission through insect bites or casual contact is dismissed; the risks in the health-care setting are assessed. Following his speech is a dramatization of a doctorpatient interchange presented by the Los Angeles County Medical
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Association. The dramatization covers awareness of the patient's sexual behavior; symptoms; asymptomatic carriers; high-risk sexual behavior, possibly risky behavior, and low-risk behavior; and other considerations. Early diagnosis and treatment is the subject of a presentation by Lowell S. Young, clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine; Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases, Pacific Presbyterian Medical Center; and Director, Kuzell Institute for Arthritis and Infectious Diseases, San Francisco. He outlines the various opportunistic infections that may afflict Persons with AIDS (PWA's), including Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), leukopenia, cryptosporidiosis, toxoplasmosis, thrush, CMV infection, mycobacterium avium infection, and Kaposi's sarcoma. He also looks at antiviral therapy and bolstering immunity as methods of treatment.
Bibliography: Multimedia on Toxoplasmosis The National Library of Medicine is a rich source of information on healthcare-related multimedia productions including slides, computer software, and databases. To access the multimedia database, go to the following Web site: http://locatorplus.gov/. Select “Search LOCATORplus.” Once in the search area, simply type in toxoplasmosis (or synonyms). Then, in the option box provided below the search box, select “Audiovisuals and Computer Files.” From there, you can choose to sort results by publication date, author, or relevance. The following multimedia has been indexed on toxoplasmosis. For more information, follow the hyperlink indicated: ·
Insinuators-Toxoplasma gondii. Source: Martin E. Gordon; Year: 1974; Format: Motion picture; New Haven, Conn.: Medical Films; [Atlanta: for loan by National Medical Audiovisual Center], 1974
·
Opportunistic infections. Source: Harold C. Neu; Year: 1973; Format: Slide; New York: Medcom, c1973
·
Perinatal infections : TORCH. Source: Mosby; Year: 1997; Format: Videorecording; St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby-Year Book, c1997
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Toxoplasmosis : an update. Source: a production of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation; produced for the Palo Alto Medical Foundation by Video Arts, Inc; Year: 1984; Format: Videorecording; Palo Alto, CA: The Foundation, c1984
·
Toxoplasmosis life cycle. Source: University of Arizona, College of Medicine; produced by Radio-TV-Film Bureau, Medical Television-Film Division, Arizona Medical Center; Year: 1974; Format: Videorecording;
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Tucson: The College: [for loan and sale by University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Biomedical Communications], c1974 ·
Toxoplasmosis, epidemiology and public health implications. Source: William F. McCulloch and Edward R. Ames; Year: 1980; Format: Slide; [College Station, Tex.]: College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A & M University, 1980
·
Toxoplasmosis. Source: author, Billy C. Ward; Year: 1981; Format: Slide; [Mississippi State, Miss.]: College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississipppi State University, 1981
·
Toxoplasmosis. Source: University of Arizona, College of Medicine; produced by Radio-TV-Film Bureau, Medical Television Film Division, Arizona Medical Center; Year: 1975; Format: Videorecording; Tucson: The College: [for loan and sale by University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Biomedical Communication], c1975
·
Zoonoses of the agricultural environment : a self-instructional presention. Source: Institute of Agricultural Medicine and Environmental Health, Dept. of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, College of Medicine, the University of Iowa; Year: 1978; Format: Slide; Oakdale, Iowa: The Institute, 1978
Vocabulary Builder Atypical: Irregular; not conformable to the type; in microbiology, applied specifically to strains of unusual type. [EU] Cryptosporidium: A genus of coccidian parasites of the family cryptosporidiidae, found in the intestinal epithelium of many vertebrates including humans. [NIH] Immunization: The induction of immunity. [EU] Mobility: Capability of movement, of being moved, or of flowing freely. [EU] Pentamidine: Antiprotozoal agent effective in trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and some fungal infections; used in treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. It may cause diabetes mellitus, central nervous system damage, and other toxic effects. [NIH]
Pharmacists: Those persons legally qualified by education and training to engage in the practice of pharmacy. [NIH] Placebos: Any dummy medication or treatment. Although placebos originally were medicinal preparations having no specific pharmacological activity against a targeted condition, the concept has been extended to
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include treatments or procedures, especially those administered to control groups in clinical trials in order to provide baseline measurements for the experimental protocol. [NIH] Polyradiculopathy: Disease or injury involving multiple spinal nerve roots. Polyradiculitis refers to inflammation of multiple spinal nerve roots. [NIH] Spastic: 1. of the nature of or characterized by spasms. 2. hypertonic, so that the muscles are stiff and the movements awkward. 3. a person exhibiting spasticity, such as occurs in spastic paralysis or in cerebral palsy. [EU] Sweat: The fluid excreted by the sweat glands. It consists of water containing sodium chloride, phosphate, urea, ammonia, and other waste products. [NIH]
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CHAPTER 8. PERIODICALS AND NEWS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview Keeping up on the news relating to toxoplasmosis can be challenging. Subscribing to targeted periodicals can be an effective way to stay abreast of recent developments on toxoplasmosis. Periodicals include newsletters, magazines, and academic journals. In this chapter, we suggest a number of news sources and present various periodicals that cover toxoplasmosis beyond and including those which are published by patient associations mentioned earlier. We will first focus on news services, and then on periodicals. News services, press releases, and newsletters generally use more accessible language, so if you do chose to subscribe to one of the more technical periodicals, make sure that it uses language you can easily follow.
News Services & Press Releases Well before articles show up in newsletters or the popular press, they may appear in the form of a press release or a public relations announcement. One of the simplest ways of tracking press releases on toxoplasmosis is to search the news wires. News wires are used by professional journalists, and have existed since the invention of the telegraph. Today, there are several major “wires” that are used by companies, universities, and other organizations to announce new medical breakthroughs. In the following sample of sources, we will briefly describe how to access each service. These services only post recent news intended for public viewing.
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PR Newswire Perhaps the broadest of the wires is PR Newswire Association, Inc. To access this archive, simply go to http://www.prnewswire.com. Below the search box, select the option “The last 30 days.” In the search box, type “toxoplasmosis” or synonyms. The search results are shown by order of relevance. When reading these press releases, do not forget that the sponsor of the release may be a company or organization that is trying to sell a particular product or therapy. Their views, therefore, may be biased.
Reuters The Reuters’ Medical News database can be very useful in exploring news archives relating to toxoplasmosis. While some of the listed articles are free to view, others can be purchased for a nominal fee. To access this archive, go to http://www.reutershealth.com/frame2/arch.html and search by “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms). The following was recently listed in this archive for toxoplasmosis: ·
HAART, immune recovery enhance protection against HIV-related toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: December 05, 2001 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2001/12/05/professional/links/20011 205clin008.html
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Azithromycin plus pyrimethamine a possible option for HIV-related toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Industry Breifing Date: April 30, 2001 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2001/04/30/business/links/20010430 clin014.html
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Eating undercooked meat is main cause of toxoplasma infection in pregnancy Source: Reuters Medical News Date: July 14, 2000 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2000/07/14/professional/links/20000 714epid008.html
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Toxoplasmosis vaccine may require combination approach Source: Reuters Medical News Date: April 19, 2000 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2000/04/19/professional/links/20000 419scie001.html
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·
DNA vaccine protects mice against toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: February 01, 2000 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2000/02/01/professional/links/20000 201scie008.html
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High-dose co-trimoxazole effective for HIV-related toxoplasmosis prophylaxis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: January 07, 2000 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/2000/01/07/professional/links/20000 107clin013.html
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CD8+ T cells may have therapeutic role in Toxoplasma gondii infection Source: Reuters Medical News Date: December 08, 1999 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1999/12/08/professional/links/19991 208scie003.html
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CCR5 delta 32 mutation may delay onset of HIV-related toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: August 20, 1999 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1999/08/20/professional/links/19990 820clin015.html
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Studies shed light on risk of maternal-fetal transmission of toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: May 31, 1999 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1999/05/31/professional/links/19990 531clin001.html
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Toxoplasmosis treatment may not protect fetus Source: Reuters Health eLine Date: May 28, 1999 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1999/05/28/eline/links/19990528elin 005.html
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Targeted prophylaxis for toxoplasmosis important in HIV-infected patients Source: Reuters Medical News Date: April 05, 1999 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1999/04/05/professional/links/19990 405clin008.html
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TMP-SMZ effective for AIDS-related cerebral toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: September 04, 1998 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1998/09/04/professional/links/19980 904clin008.html
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Anti-HIV Drug, ddI, May Be Effective For Toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: July 14, 1997 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1997/07/14/professional/links/19970 714scie002.html
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Brain Scan Most Useful Diagnostic Tool In AIDS-Related Toxoplasmosis Source: Reuters Medical News Date: February 19, 1997 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1997/02/19/professional/links/19970 219clin006.html
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Trends Reported For Toxoplasmosis In HIV-Positive Individuals Source: Reuters Medical News Date: November 06, 1996 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1996/11/06/professional/links/19961 106epid004.html
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Trovafloxacin Active Against Toxoplasma Gondii Source: Reuters Medical News Date: August 23, 1996 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1996/08/23/professional/links/19960 823clin008.html
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Prophylaxis For Toxoplasma Encephalitis Underutilized Source: Reuters Medical News Date: May 23, 1996 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1996/05/23/professional/links/19960 523clin002.html
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Daily Sulfadiazine-Pyrimethamine Prevents Toxoplasmosis Encephalitis Recurrence In AIDS Source: Reuters Medical News Date: August 02, 1995 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1995/08/02/professional/links/19950 802clin007.html
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·
Two Prophylactic Regimens Effective Against PCP And Toxoplasmosis In HIV-Infected Patients Source: Reuters Medical News Date: May 15, 1995 http://www.reuters.gov/archive/1995/05/15/professional/links/19950 515clin007.html
The NIH Within MEDLINEplus, the NIH has made an agreement with the New York Times Syndicate, the AP News Service, and Reuters to deliver news that can be browsed by the public. Search news releases at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alphanews_a.html. MEDLINEplus allows you to browse across an alphabetical index. Or you can search by date at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/newsbydate.html. Often, news items are indexed by MEDLINEplus within their search engine.
Business Wire Business Wire is similar to PR Newswire. To access this archive, simply go to http://www.businesswire.com. You can scan the news by industry category or company name.
Internet Wire Internet Wire is more focused on technology than the other wires. To access this site, go to http://www.internetwire.com and use the “Search Archive” option. Type in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms). As this service is oriented to technology, you may wish to search for press releases covering diagnostic procedures or tests that you may have read about.
Search Engines Free-to-view news can also be found in the news section of your favorite search engines (see the health news page at Yahoo: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/News_and_Media/, or use this Web site’s general news search page http://news.yahoo.com/. Type in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms). If you know the name of a company that is relevant to toxoplasmosis, you can go to any stock trading Web site (such as
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www.etrade.com) and search for the company name there. News items across various news sources are reported on indicated hyperlinks.
BBC Covering news from a more European perspective, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) allows the public free access to their news archive located at http://www.bbc.co.uk/. Search by “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms).
Newsletter Articles If you choose not to subscribe to a newsletter, you can nevertheless find references to newsletter articles. We recommend that you use the Combined Health Information Database, while limiting your search criteria to “newsletter articles.” Again, you will need to use the “Detailed Search” option. Go to the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. Go to the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” Select the dates and language that you prefer. For the format option, select “Newsletter Article.” By making these selections, and typing in “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box, you will only receive results on newsletter articles. You should check back periodically with this database as it is updated every 3 months. The following is a typical result when searching for newsletter articles on toxoplasmosis: ·
Understanding the AIDS Dementia Complex Source: Family Survival Project Update. [Newsletter] 10(3): 6. Fall, 1991. Contact: Family Survival Project. 425 Bush Street, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA 94108. (415) 434-3388 or (800) 445-8106 (in California). Price: Call for price information. Summary: This newsletter article for the nonprofessional caregiver reviews the types of neurological problems that may develop in people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Neurological disorders in people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) consist of two broad types: opportunistic infections such as Cryptococcal meningitis and Toxoplasmosis, and the AIDS Dementia Complex. The AIDS Dementia Complex is caused by direct infection of the brain by the HIV virus. Early cognitive symptoms include poor concentration, slowed
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mental processing, impaired initiation, and forgetfulness. Behavioral symptoms include withdrawal, apathy, and personality changes. Early motor problems include difficulty with balance, clumsiness, and leg weakness. There is no treatment for AIDS Dementia Complex, but some patients have benefitted from the anti-viral drug, AZT (Azidothymidine or Retrovir). Caregivers should be aware of the common early signs of cognitive impairment so that patients can be quickly referred for diagnosis and treatment. 4 references.
Academic Periodicals covering Toxoplasmosis Academic periodicals can be a highly technical yet valuable source of information on toxoplasmosis. We have compiled the following list of periodicals known to publish articles relating to toxoplasmosis and which are currently indexed within the National Library of Medicine’s PubMed database (follow hyperlinks to view more information, summaries, etc., for each). In addition to these sources, to keep current on articles written on toxoplasmosis published by any of the periodicals listed below, you can simply follow the hyperlink indicated or go to the following Web site: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. Type the periodical’s name into the search box to find the latest studies published. If you want complete details about the historical contents of a periodical, you can also visit http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi. Here, type in the name of the journal or its abbreviation, and you will receive an index of published articles. At http://locatorplus.gov/ you can retrieve more indexing information on medical periodicals (e.g. the name of the publisher). Select the button “Search LOCATORplus.” Then type in the name of the journal and select the advanced search option “Journal Title Search.” The following is a sample of periodicals which publish articles on toxoplasmosis: ·
Acta Neuropathologica. (Acta Neuropathol (Berl)) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi?field=0®exp=Ac ta+Neuropathologica&dispmax=20&dispstart=0
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Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. (Brain Behav Immun) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi?field=0®exp=Br ain,+Behavior,+and+Immunity&dispmax=20&dispstart=0
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Experimental Parasitology. (Exp Parasitol) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi?field=0®exp=Ex perimental+Parasitology&dispmax=20&dispstart=0
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Journal of Clinical Pathology. (J Clin Pathol) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi?field=0®exp=Jo urnal+of+Clinical+Pathology&dispmax=20&dispstart=0
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Journal of Surgical Oncology. (J Surg Oncol) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/jrbrowser.cgi?field=0®exp=Jo urnal+of+Surgical+Oncology&dispmax=20&dispstart=0
Vocabulary Builder Apathy: Lack of feeling or emotion; indifference. [EU] Withdrawal: 1. a pathological retreat from interpersonal contact and social involvement, as may occur in schizophrenia, depression, or schizoid avoidant and schizotypal personality disorders. 2. (DSM III-R) a substancespecific organic brain syndrome that follows the cessation of use or reduction in intake of a psychoactive substance that had been regularly used to induce a state of intoxication. [EU]
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CHAPTER 9. PHYSICIAN GUIDELINES AND DATABASES Overview Doctors and medical researchers rely on a number of information sources to help patients with their conditions. Many will subscribe to journals or newsletters published by their professional associations or refer to specialized textbooks or clinical guides published for the medical profession. In this chapter, we focus on databases and Internet-based guidelines created or written for this professional audience.
NIH Guidelines For the more common diseases, The National Institutes of Health publish guidelines that are frequently consulted by physicians. Publications are typically written by one or more of the various NIH Institutes. For physician guidelines, commonly referred to as “clinical” or “professional” guidelines, you can visit the following Institutes: ·
Office of the Director (OD); guidelines consolidated across agencies available at http://www.nih.gov/health/consumer/conkey.htm
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National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS); fact sheets available at http://www.nigms.nih.gov/news/facts/
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National Library of Medicine (NLM); extensive encyclopedia (A.D.A.M., Inc.) with guidelines: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html
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National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); guidelines available at http://www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; various fact sheets on infectious diseases available at http://www.cdc.gov/health/diseases.htm
NIH Databases In addition to the various Institutes of Health that publish professional guidelines, the NIH has designed a number of databases for professionals.27 Physician-oriented resources provide a wide variety of information related to the biomedical and health sciences, both past and present. The format of these resources varies. Searchable databases, bibliographic citations, full text articles (when available), archival collections, and images are all available. The following are referenced by the National Library of Medicine:28 ·
Bioethics: Access to published literature on the ethical, legal and public policy issues surrounding healthcare and biomedical research. This information is provided in conjunction with the Kennedy Institute of Ethics located at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_bioethics.html
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HIV/AIDS Resources: Describes various links and databases dedicated to HIV/AIDS research: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/pubs/factsheets/aidsinfs.html
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NLM Online Exhibitions: Describes “Exhibitions in the History of Medicine”: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/exhibition/exhibition.html. Additional resources for historical scholarship in medicine: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/hmd/hmd.html
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Biotechnology Information: Access to public databases. The National Center for Biotechnology Information conducts research in computational biology, develops software tools for analyzing genome data, and disseminates biomedical information for the better understanding of molecular processes affecting human health and disease: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
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Population Information: The National Library of Medicine provides access to worldwide coverage of population, family planning, and related health issues, including family planning technology and programs, fertility, and population law and policy: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_population.html
Remember, for the general public, the National Library of Medicine recommends the databases referenced in MEDLINEplus (http://medlineplus.gov/ or http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/databases.html). 28 See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases.html. 27
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Cancer Information: Access to caner-oriented databases: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_cancer.html
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Profiles in Science: Offering the archival collections of prominent twentieth-century biomedical scientists to the public through modern digital technology: http://www.profiles.nlm.nih.gov/
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Chemical Information: Provides links to various chemical databases and references: http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/Chem/ChemMain.html
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Clinical Alerts: Reports the release of findings from the NIH-funded clinical trials where such release could significantly affect morbidity and mortality: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/alerts/clinical_alerts.html
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Space Life Sciences: Provides links and information to space-based research (including NASA): http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_space.html
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MEDLINE: Bibliographic database covering the fields of medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, the healthcare system, and the pre-clinical sciences: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_medline.html
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Toxicology and Environmental Health Information (TOXNET): Databases covering toxicology and environmental health: http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/Tox/ToxMain.html
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Visible Human Interface: Anatomically detailed, three-dimensional representations of normal male and female human bodies: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/visible/visible_human.html
While all of the above references may be of interest to physicians who study and treat toxoplasmosis, the following are particularly noteworthy.
The Combined Health Information Database A comprehensive source of information on clinical guidelines written for professionals is the Combined Health Information Database. You will need to limit your search to “Brochure/Pamphlet,” “Fact Sheet,” or “Information Package” and toxoplasmosis using the “Detailed Search” option. Go directly to the following hyperlink: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find associations, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” For the publication date, select “All Years,” select your preferred language, and the format option “Fact Sheet.” By making these selections and typing “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the
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“For these words:” box above, you will only receive results on fact sheets dealing with toxoplasmosis. The following is a sample result: ·
Management of Tuberculosis and CNS Toxoplasmosis Source: Aspects of HIV Management in Injecting Drug Users. Contact: Wellcome Foundation, Group Marketing, Langley Court, Beckenham. Summary: This paper, presented at an international seminar on managing Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among Injecting drug users (IDU's), says that tuberculosis is seen in approximately one-third of all IDU's with Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and that it presents a different clinical picture than it does in other subjects. The paper, which presents the results of clinical trials in Spain to treat TB and CNS toxoplasmosis, looks at maintenance therapy for tuberculosis. It also addresses primary prophylaxis for TB and treatment for toxoplasmosis.
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Toxoplasmic Encephalitis Contact: US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 31 Center Dr MSC 2520, Bethesda, MD, 20892-2520, (301) 496-5717, http://www.niaid.nih.gov. Summary: This report discusses toxoplasmosis, specifically toxoplasmic encephalitis, found in persons with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It says that 20 to 30 percent of adults in the U.S. become infected with Toxoplasma gondii at some point, but unless their immune systems become damaged, they manifest no symptoms. The parasite can be passed to humans by contact with the excrement of infected cats, or transmitted in undercooked meat from other infected animals. The infection can result in encephalitis, a life-threatening disease, or it may cause inflammation of parts of the eye. Symptoms of encephalitis include mild headache, fever, and nervous system impairment, including neurologic problems, seizures, diminished alertness, and even coma. The standard therapy consists of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine, but the side effects are so severe in 40 percent of patients that the treatment must be discontinued. The treatment suppresses blood-forming cells, and also may result in blood in the urine, fever, severe rashes, abdominal discomfort, headaches, and abnormalities in the liver. Preliminary studies are being done on a combination of clindamycin and pyrimethamine. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) presently has seven clinical trials ongoing on treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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The NLM Gateway29 The NLM (National Library of Medicine) Gateway is a Web-based system that lets users search simultaneously in multiple retrieval systems at the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). It allows users of NLM services to initiate searches from one Web interface, providing “one-stop searching” for many of NLM’s information resources or databases.30 One target audience for the Gateway is the Internet user who is new to NLM’s online resources and does not know what information is available or how best to search for it. This audience may include physicians and other healthcare providers, researchers, librarians, students, and, increasingly, patients, their families, and the public.31 To use the NLM Gateway, simply go to the search site at http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/gw/Cmd. Type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box and click “Search.” The results will be presented in a tabular form, indicating the number of references in each database category. Results Summary Category Items Found Journal Articles 345408 Books / Periodicals / Audio Visual 2567 Consumer Health 294 Meeting Abstracts 3093 Other Collections 100 Total 351462
Adapted from NLM: http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/gw/Cmd?Overview.x. The NLM Gateway is currently being developed by the Lister Hill National Center for Biomedical Communications (LHNCBC) at the National Library of Medicine (NLM) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 31 Other users may find the Gateway useful for an overall search of NLM’s information resources. Some searchers may locate what they need immediately, while others will utilize the Gateway as an adjunct tool to other NLM search services such as PubMed® and MEDLINEplus®. The Gateway connects users with multiple NLM retrieval systems while also providing a search interface for its own collections. These collections include various types of information that do not logically belong in PubMed, LOCATORplus, or other established NLM retrieval systems (e.g., meeting announcements and pre-1966 journal citations). The Gateway will provide access to the information found in an increasing number of NLM retrieval systems in several phases. 29 30
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HSTAT32 HSTAT is a free, Web-based resource that provides access to full-text documents used in healthcare decision-making.33 HSTAT’s audience includes healthcare providers, health service researchers, policy makers, insurance companies, consumers, and the information professionals who serve these groups. HSTAT provides access to a wide variety of publications, including clinical practice guidelines, quick-reference guides for clinicians, consumer health brochures, evidence reports and technology assessments from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), as well as AHRQ’s Put Prevention Into Practice.34 Simply search by “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) at the following Web site: http://text.nlm.nih.gov. Coffee Break: Tutorials for Biologists35 Some patients may wish to have access to a general healthcare site that takes a scientific view of the news and covers recent breakthroughs in biology that may one day assist physicians in developing treatments. To this end, we recommend “Coffee Break,” a collection of short reports on recent biological discoveries. Each report incorporates interactive tutorials that demonstrate how bioinformatics tools are used as a part of the research process. Currently, all Coffee Breaks are written by NCBI staff.36 Each report is about 400 words and is usually based on a discovery reported in one or more articles from recently published, peer-reviewed literature.37 This site has new Adapted from HSTAT: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/pubs/factsheets/hstat.html. The HSTAT URL is http://hstat.nlm.nih.gov/. 34 Other important documents in HSTAT include: the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Conference Reports and Technology Assessment Reports; the HIV/AIDS Treatment Information Service (ATIS) resource documents; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (SAMHSA/CSAT) Treatment Improvement Protocols (TIP) and Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (SAMHSA/CSAP) Prevention Enhancement Protocols System (PEPS); the Public Health Service (PHS) Preventive Services Task Force’s Guide to Clinical Preventive Services; the independent, nonfederal Task Force on Community Services Guide to Community Preventive Services; and the Health Technology Advisory Committee (HTAC) of the Minnesota Health Care Commission (MHCC) health technology evaluations. 35 Adapted from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Coffeebreak/Archive/FAQ.html. 36 The figure that accompanies each article is frequently supplied by an expert external to NCBI, in which case the source of the figure is cited. The result is an interactive tutorial that tells a biological story. 37 After a brief introduction that sets the work described into a broader context, the report focuses on how a molecular understanding can provide explanations of observed biology and lead to therapies for diseases. Each vignette is accompanied by a figure and hypertext links that lead to a series of pages that interactively show how NCBI tools and resources are used in the research process. 32 33
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articles every few weeks, so it can be considered an online magazine of sorts, and intended for general background information. You can access the Coffee Break Web site at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Coffeebreak/.
Other Commercial Databases In addition to resources maintained by official agencies, other databases exist that are commercial ventures addressing medical professionals. Here are a few examples that may interest you: ·
CliniWeb International: Index and table of contents to selected clinical information on the Internet; see http://www.ohsu.edu/cliniweb/.
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Image Engine: Multimedia electronic medical record system that integrates a wide range of digitized clinical images with textual data stored in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s MARS electronic medical record system; see the following Web site: http://www.cml.upmc.edu/cml/imageengine/imageEngine.html.
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Medical World Search: Searches full text from thousands of selected medical sites on the Internet; see http://www.mwsearch.com/.
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MedWeaver: Prototype system that allows users to search differential diagnoses for any list of signs and symptoms, to search medical literature, and to explore relevant Web sites; see http://www.med.virginia.edu/~wmd4n/medweaver.html.
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Metaphrase: Middleware component intended for use by both caregivers and medical records personnel. It converts the informal language generally used by caregivers into terms from formal, controlled vocabularies; see the following Web site: http://www.lexical.com/Metaphrase.html.
The Genome Project and Toxoplasmosis With all the discussion in the press about the Human Genome Project, it is only natural that physicians, researchers, and patients want to know about how human genes relate to toxoplasmosis. In the following section, we will discuss databases and references used by physicians and scientists who work in this area.
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Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database is a catalog of human genes and genetic disorders authored and edited by Dr. Victor A. McKusick and his colleagues at Johns Hopkins and elsewhere. OMIM was developed for the World Wide Web by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).38 The database contains textual information, pictures, and reference information. It also contains copious links to NCBI’s Entrez database of MEDLINE articles and sequence information. Go to http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Omim/searchomim.html to search the database. Type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) in the search box, and click “Submit Search.” If too many results appear, you can narrow the search by adding the word “clinical.” Each report will have additional links to related research and databases. By following these links, especially the link titled “Database Links,” you will be exposed to numerous specialized databases that are largely used by the scientific community. These databases are overly technical and seldom used by the general public, but offer an abundance of information. The following is an example of the results you can obtain from the OMIM for toxoplasmosis: ·
Pseudo-torch Syndrome Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbinpost/Omim/dispmim?251290
Adapted from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/. Established in 1988 as a national resource for molecular biology information, NCBI creates public databases, conducts research in computational biology, develops software tools for analyzing genome data, and disseminates biomedical information--all for the better understanding of molecular processes affecting human health and disease.
38
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Genes and Disease (NCBI - Map) The Genes and Disease database is produced by the National Center for Biotechnology Information of the National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health. This Web site categorizes each disorder by the system of the body associated with it. Go to http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/disease/, and browse the system pages to have a full view of important conditions linked to human genes. Since this site is regularly updated, you may wish to re-visit it from time to time. The following systems and associated disorders are addressed: ·
Immune System: Fights invaders. Examples: Asthma, autoimmune polyglandular syndrome, Crohn’s disease, DiGeorge syndrome, familial Mediterranean fever, immunodeficiency with Hyper-IgM, severe combined immunodeficiency. Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/disease/Immune.html
·
Nervous System: Mind and body. Examples: Alzheimer disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Angelman syndrome, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, epilepsy, essential tremor, Fragile X syndrome, Friedreich’s ataxia, Huntington disease, NiemannPick disease, Parkinson disease, Prader-Willi syndrome, Rett syndrome, Spinocerebellar atrophy, Williams syndrome. Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/disease/Brain.html
·
Signals: Cellular messages. Examples: Ataxia telangiectasia, Baldness, Cockayne syndrome, Glaucoma, SRY: sex determination, Tuberous sclerosis, Waardenburg syndrome, Werner syndrome. Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/disease/Signals.html
·
Transporters: Pumps and channels. Examples: Cystic Fibrosis, deafness, diastrophic dysplasia, Hemophilia A, long-QT syndrome, Menkes syndrome, Pendred syndrome, polycystic kidney disease, sickle cell anemia, Wilson’s disease, Zellweger syndrome. Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/disease/Transporters.html
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Entrez Entrez is a search and retrieval system that integrates several linked databases at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). These databases include nucleotide sequences, protein sequences, macromolecular structures, whole genomes, and MEDLINE through PubMed. Entrez provides access to the following databases: ·
PubMed: Biomedical literature (PubMed), Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed
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Nucleotide Sequence Database (Genbank): Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Nucleotide
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Protein Sequence Database: Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Protein
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Structure: Three-dimensional macromolecular structures, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Structure
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Genome: Complete genome assemblies, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Genome
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PopSet: Population study data sets, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Popset
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OMIM: Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=OMIM
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Taxonomy: Organisms in GenBank, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=Taxonomy
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Books: Online books, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=books
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ProbeSet: Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=geo
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3D Domains: Domains from Entrez Structure, Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=geo
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NCBI’s Protein Sequence Information Survey Results: Web site: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/About/proteinsurvey/
To access the Entrez system at the National Center for Biotechnology Information, go to http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/, and then select the database that you would like to search. The databases available are listed in
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the drop box next to “Search.” In the box next to “for,” enter “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) and click “Go.”
Jablonski’s Multiple Congenital Anomaly/Mental Retardation (MCA/MR) Syndromes Database39 This online resource can be quite useful. It has been developed to facilitate the identification and differentiation of syndromic entities. Special attention is given to the type of information that is usually limited or completely omitted in existing reference sources due to space limitations of the printed form. At http://www.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/jablonski/syndrome_toc/toc_a.html you can also search across syndromes using an alphabetical index. You can also search at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/jablonski/syndrome_db.html. The Genome Database40 Established at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland in 1990, the Genome Database (GDB) is the official central repository for genomic mapping data resulting from the Human Genome Initiative. In the spring of 1999, the Bioinformatics Supercomputing Centre (BiSC) at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario assumed the management of GDB. The Human Genome Initiative is a worldwide research effort focusing on structural analysis of human DNA to determine the location and sequence of the estimated 100,000 human genes. In support of this project, GDB stores and curates data generated by researchers worldwide who are engaged in the mapping effort of the Human Genome Project (HGP). GDB’s mission is to provide scientists with an encyclopedia of the human genome which is continually revised and updated to reflect the current state of scientific knowledge. Although GDB has historically focused on gene mapping, its focus will broaden as the Genome Project moves from mapping to sequence, and finally, to functional analysis. To access the GDB, simply go to the following hyperlink: http://www.gdb.org/. Search “All Biological Data” by “Keyword.” Type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box, and review the results. If Adapted from the National Library of Medicine: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/jablonski/about_syndrome.html. 40 Adapted from the Genome Database: http://gdbwww.gdb.org/gdb/aboutGDB.html#mission. 39
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more than one word is used in the search box, then separate each one with the word “and” or “or” (using “or” might be useful when using synonyms). This database is extremely technical as it was created for specialists. The articles are the results which are the most accessible to non-professionals and often listed under the heading “Citations.” The contact names are also accessible to non-professionals.
Specialized References The following books are specialized references written for professionals interested in toxoplasmosis (sorted alphabetically by title, hyperlinks provide rankings, information, and reviews at Amazon.com): · 2002 Pocket Book of Infectious Disease Therapy by John G. Bartlett; Paperback - 348 pages, 11th edition (November 15, 2001), Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins Publishers; ISBN: 0781734320; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0781734320/icongroupinterna · Concepts in Microbiology, Immunology, & Infectious Disease: A Review for the Usmle Step 1 (Usmle Concepts Series) by Kapil Gupta; Paperback (May 1997), CRC Press-Parthenon Publishers; ISBN: 1850707979; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1850707979/icongroupinterna · Current Diagnosis & Treatment in Infectious Diseases by Walter R. Wilson (Editor), et al; Paperback - 985 pages, 1st edition (June 22, 2001), McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing; ISBN: 0838514944; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0838514944/icongroupinterna · Hunter’s Tropical Medicine and Emerging Infectious Diseases by George W. Hunter (Editor), et al; Hardcover - 1192 pages, 8th edition (January 15, 2000), W B Saunders Co; ISBN: 0721662234; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0721662234/icongroupinterna · Infectious Disease by Barbara Bannister, et al; Paperback - 506 pages, 2nd edition (August 15, 2000), Blackwell Science Inc; ISBN: 0632053194; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0632053194/icongroupinterna · Infectious Disease Epidemiology: Theory and Practice by Kenrad E. Nelson, et al; Hardcover - 600 pages (May 2000), Aspen Publishers, Inc.; ISBN: 083421766X; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/083421766X/icongroupinterna · Infectious Diseases Diagnosis : Current Status and Future Trends (Parasitology, 117) by H. V. Smith (Editor), et al; Paperback - 218 pages
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(August 2000), Cambridge University Press; ISBN: 0521785073; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0521785073/icongroupinterna · Infectious Diseases and Arthropods by Jerome Goddard; Hardcover - 240 pages (November 1999), Humana Press; ISBN: 0896038254; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0896038254/icongroupinterna · Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles & Practice of Infectious Diseases (2 Vol. Set) by Gerald L. Mandell (Editor), et al; Hardcover - 3263 pages, 5th edition (June 15, 2000), Churchill Livingstone; ISBN: 044307593X; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/044307593X/icongroupinterna
· Manual of Antibiotics and Infectious Diseases: Treatment and Prevention by John E. Conte; Paperback - 755 pages, 9th edition (December 15, 2001), Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins Publishers; ISBN: 0781723167; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0781723167/icongroupinterna · Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases by R. C. Andrew Thompson; Hardcover - 326 pages, 1st edition (October 15, 2000), Edward Arnold; ISBN: 0340759097; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0340759097/icongroupinterna · Tropical Medicine and Parasitology by Wallace Peters, Geoffrey Pasvol; Paperback - 334 pages, 5th edition (January 15, 2002), Mosby-Year Book; ISBN: 0723431914; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0723431914/icongroupinterna
Vocabulary Builder Abdominal: Pertaining to the abdomen. [EU] Acyclovir: Functional analog of the nucleoside guanosine. It acts as an antimetabolite, especially in viruses. It is used as an antiviral agent, especially in herpes infections. [NIH] Clarithromycin: A semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic derived from erythromycin that is active against a variety of microorganisms. It can inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria by reversibly binding to the 50S ribosomal subunits. This inhibits the translocation of aminoacyl transfer-RNA and prevents peptide chain elongation. [NIH] Clindamycin: An antibacterial agent that is a semisynthetic analog of lincomycin. [NIH] Clotrimazole: An imidazole derivative with a broad spectrum of antimycotic activity. It inhibits biosynthesis of the sterol ergostol, an important component of fungal cell membranes. Its action leads to increased
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membrane permeability and apparent disruption of enzyme systems bound to the membrane. [NIH] Cryptococcus: A mitosporic Tremellales fungal genus whose species usually have a capsule and do not form pseudomycellium. Teleomorphs include Filobasidiella and Fidobasidium. [NIH] Foscarnet: An antiviral agent used in the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis. Foscarnet also shows activity against human herpesviruses and HIV. [NIH] Ganciclovir: Acyclovir analog that is a potent inhibitor of the Herpesvirus family including cytomegalovirus. Ganciclovir is used to treat complications from AIDS-associated cytomegalovirus infections. [NIH] Humoral: Of, relating to, proceeding from, or involving a bodily humour now often used of endocrine factors as opposed to neural or somatic. [EU] Inflammation: A pathological process characterized by injury or destruction of tissues caused by a variety of cytologic and chemical reactions. It is usually manifested by typical signs of pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. [NIH] Isoniazid: Antibacterial agent used primarily as a tuberculostatic. It remains the treatment of choice for tuberculosis. [NIH] Itraconazole: An antifungal agent that has been used in the treatment of histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, cryptococcal meningitis, and aspergillosis. [NIH]
Ketoconazole: Broad spectrum antifungal agent used for long periods at high doses, especially in immunosuppressed patients. [NIH] Nystatin: Macrolide antifungal antibiotic complex produced by Streptomyces noursei, S. aureus, and other Streptomyces species. The biologically active components of the complex are nystatin A1, A2, and A3. [NIH]
Psychiatric: Pertaining to or within the purview of psychiatry. [EU] Rifabutin: A broad-spectrum antibiotic that is being used as prophylaxis against disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex infection in HIVpositive patients. [NIH]
Dissertations 135
CHAPTER 10. DISSERTATIONS ON TOXOPLASMOSIS Overview University researchers are active in studying almost all known diseases. The result of research is often published in the form of Doctoral or Master’s dissertations. You should understand, therefore, that applied diagnostic procedures and/or therapies can take many years to develop after the thesis that proposed the new technique or approach was written. In this chapter, we will give you a bibliography on recent dissertations relating to toxoplasmosis. You can read about these in more detail using the Internet or your local medical library. We will also provide you with information on how to use the Internet to stay current on dissertations.
Dissertations on Toxoplasmosis ProQuest Digital Dissertations is the largest archive of academic dissertations available. From this archive, we have compiled the following list covering dissertations devoted to toxoplasmosis. You will see that the information provided includes the dissertation’s title, its author, and the author’s institution. To read more about the following, simply use the Internet address indicated. The following covers recent dissertations dealing with toxoplasmosis: ·
Development and Regulation of Tachyzoite-bradyzoite Differentiation in Toxoplasma Gondii by Ouko, Lillian Anyango; Phd from University of Pennsylvania, 2001, 196 pages http://wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations/fullcit/3003673
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·
The Role of Costimulatory Molecules during Protective and Pathogenic Immune Responses Following Infection with Toxoplasma Gondii by Villegas, Eric Nazareno; Phd from University of Pennsylvania, 2001, 303 pages http://wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations/fullcit/3031732
Keeping Current As previously mentioned, an effective way to stay current on dissertations dedicated to toxoplasmosis is to use the database called ProQuest Digital Dissertations via the Internet, located at the following Web address: http://wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations. The site allows you to freely access the last two years of citations and abstracts. Ask your medical librarian if the library has full and unlimited access to this database. From the library, you should be able to do more complete searches than with the limited 2-year access available to the general public.
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PART III. APPENDICES
ABOUT PART III Part III is a collection of appendices on general medical topics which may be of interest to patients with toxoplasmosis and related conditions.
Researching Your Medications 139
APPENDIX A. RESEARCHING YOUR MEDICATIONS Overview There are a number of sources available on new or existing medications which could be prescribed to patients with toxoplasmosis. While a number of hard copy or CD-Rom resources are available to patients and physicians for research purposes, a more flexible method is to use Internet-based databases. In this chapter, we will begin with a general overview of medications. We will then proceed to outline official recommendations on how you should view your medications. You may also want to research medications that you are currently taking for other conditions as they may interact with medications for toxoplasmosis. Research can give you information on the side effects, interactions, and limitations of prescription drugs used in the treatment of toxoplasmosis. Broadly speaking, there are two sources of information on approved medications: public sources and private sources. We will emphasize free-to-use public sources.
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Your Medications: The Basics41 The Agency for Health Care Research and Quality has published extremely useful guidelines on how you can best participate in the medication aspects of toxoplasmosis. Taking medicines is not always as simple as swallowing a pill. It can involve many steps and decisions each day. The AHCRQ recommends that patients with toxoplasmosis take part in treatment decisions. Do not be afraid to ask questions and talk about your concerns. By taking a moment to ask questions early, you may avoid problems later. Here are some points to cover each time a new medicine is prescribed: ·
Ask about all parts of your treatment, including diet changes, exercise, and medicines.
·
Ask about the risks and benefits of each medicine or other treatment you might receive.
·
Ask how often you or your doctor will check for side effects from a given medication.
Do not hesitate to ask what is important to you about your medicines. You may want a medicine with the fewest side effects, or the fewest doses to take each day. You may care most about cost, or how the medicine might affect how you live or work. Or, you may want the medicine your doctor believes will work the best. Telling your doctor will help him or her select the best treatment for you. Do not be afraid to “bother” your doctor with your concerns and questions about medications for toxoplasmosis. You can also talk to a nurse or a pharmacist. They can help you better understand your treatment plan. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you when you visit your doctor. Talking over your options with someone you trust can help you make better choices, especially if you are not feeling well. Specifically, ask your doctor the following: ·
The name of the medicine and what it is supposed to do.
·
How and when to take the medicine, how much to take, and for how long.
·
What food, drinks, other medicines, or activities you should avoid while taking the medicine.
·
What side effects the medicine may have, and what to do if they occur.
·
If you can get a refill, and how often.
41
This section is adapted from AHCRQ: http://www.ahcpr.gov/consumer/ncpiebro.htm.
Researching Your Medications 141
·
About any terms or directions you do not understand.
·
What to do if you miss a dose.
·
If there is written information you can take home (most pharmacies have information sheets on your prescription medicines; some even offer large-print or Spanish versions).
Do not forget to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking (not just those for toxoplasmosis). This includes prescription medicines and the medicines that you buy over the counter. Then your doctor can avoid giving you a new medicine that may not work well with the medications you take now. When talking to your doctor, you may wish to prepare a list of medicines you currently take, the reason you take them, and how you take them. Be sure to include the following information for each: ·
Name of medicine
·
Reason taken
·
Dosage
·
Time(s) of day
Also include any over-the-counter medicines, such as: ·
Laxatives
·
Diet pills
·
Vitamins
·
Cold medicine
·
Aspirin or other pain, headache, or fever medicine
·
Cough medicine
·
Allergy relief medicine
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Antacids
·
Sleeping pills
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Others (include names)
Learning More about Your Medications Because of historical investments by various organizations and the emergence of the Internet, it has become rather simple to learn about the
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medications your doctor has recommended for toxoplasmosis. One such source is the United States Pharmacopeia. In 1820, eleven physicians met in Washington, D.C. to establish the first compendium of standard drugs for the United States. They called this compendium the “U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).” Today, the USP is a non-profit organization consisting of 800 volunteer scientists, eleven elected officials, and 400 representatives of state associations and colleges of medicine and pharmacy. The USP is located in Rockville, Maryland, and its home page is located at www.usp.org. The USP currently provides standards for over 3,700 medications. The resulting USP DIÒ Advice for the PatientÒ can be accessed through the National Library of Medicine of the National Institutes of Health. The database is partially derived from lists of federally approved medications in the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Drug Approvals database.42 While the FDA database is rather large and difficult to navigate, the Phamacopeia is both user-friendly and free to use. It covers more than 9,000 prescription and over-the-counter medications. To access this database, simply type the following hyperlink into your Web browser: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginformation.html. To view examples of a given medication (brand names, category, description, preparation, proper use, precautions, side effects, etc.), simply follow the hyperlinks indicated within the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP). It is important to read the disclaimer by the USP (http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugdisclaimer.html) before using the information provided. Of course, we as editors cannot be certain as to what medications you are taking. Therefore, we have compiled a list of medications associated with the treatment of toxoplasmosis. Once again, due to space limitations, we only list a sample of medications and provide hyperlinks to ample documentation (e.g. typical dosage, side effects, drug-interaction risks, etc.). The following drugs have been mentioned in the Pharmacopeia and other sources as being potentially applicable to toxoplasmosis: Azithromycin ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Zithromax http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/azithromycinsys temic202642.html
Though cumbersome, the FDA database can be freely browsed at the following site: www.fda.gov/cder/da/da.htm.
42
Researching Your Medications 143
Clarithromycin ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Biaxin http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/clarithromycins ystemic202667.html
Clindamycin ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Cleocin http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/clindamycinsyst emic202145.html
·
Topical - U.S. Brands: Clinda-Derm http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/clindamycintopi cal202146.html
·
Vaginal - U.S. Brands: Cleocin http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/clindamycinvag inal202700.html
Leucovorin ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Wellcovorin http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/leucovorinsyste mic202321.html
Pyrimethamine ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Daraprim http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/pyrimethamines ystemic202494.html
Spiramycin ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/pyrimethamines ystemic202494.html
Sulfonamides and Trimethoprim ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Bactrim; Bactrim DS; Bactrim I.V.; Bactrim Pediatric; Cofatrim Forte; Cotrim; Cotrim DS; Cotrim Pediatric; Septra; Septra DS; Septra Grape Suspension; Septra I.V.; Septra Suspension; Sulfatrim; Sulfatrim Pediatric; Sulfatrim S/S; Sulfatrim Suspension; S http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/sulfonamidesan dtrimethoprimsys202781.html
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Trimethoprim ·
Systemic - U.S. Brands: Proloprim; Trimpex http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/trimethoprimsy stemic202579.html
Commercial Databases In addition to the medications listed in the USP above, a number of commercial sites are available by subscription to physicians and their institutions. You may be able to access these sources from your local medical library or your doctor’s office.
Reuters Health Drug Database The Reuters Health Drug Database can be searched by keyword at the hyperlink: http://www.reutershealth.com/frame2/drug.html. The following medications are listed in the Reuters’ database as associated with toxoplasmosis (including those with contraindications):43 ·
Clindamycin http://www.reutershealth.com/atoz/html/Clindamycin.htm
·
Foscarnet Sodium http://www.reutershealth.com/atoz/html/Foscarnet_Sodium.htm
·
Foscarnet Sodium (Phosphonoformic Acid) http://www.reutershealth.com/atoz/html/Foscarnet_Sodium_(Phosph onoformic_Acid).htm
·
Sulfisoxazole http://www.reutershealth.com/atoz/html/Sulfisoxazole.htm
Mosby’s GenRx Mosby’s GenRx database (also available on CD-Rom and book format) covers 45,000 drug products including generics and international brands. It provides prescribing information, drug interactions, and patient information. Information can be obtained at the following hyperlink: http://www.genrx.com/Mosby/PhyGenRx/group.html.
43
Adapted from A to Z Drug Facts by Facts and Comparisons.
Researching Your Medications 145
Physicians Desk Reference The Physicians Desk Reference database (also available in CD-Rom and book format) is a full-text drug database. The database is searchable by brand name, generic name or by indication. It features multiple drug interactions reports. Information can be obtained at the following hyperlink: http://physician.pdr.net/physician/templates/en/acl/psuser_t.htm.
Other Web Sites A number of additional Web sites discuss drug information. As an example, you may like to look at www.drugs.com which reproduces the information in the Pharmacopeia as well as commercial information. You may also want to consider the Web site of the Medical Letter, Inc. which allows users to download articles on various drugs and therapeutics for a nominal fee: http://www.medletter.com/.
Contraindications and Interactions (Hidden Dangers) Some of the medications mentioned in the previous discussions can be problematic for patients with toxoplasmosis--not because they are used in the treatment process, but because of contraindications, or side effects. Medications with contraindications are those that could react with drugs used to treat toxoplasmosis or potentially create deleterious side effects in patients with toxoplasmosis. You should ask your physician about any contraindications, especially as these might apply to other medications that you may be taking for common ailments. Drug-drug interactions occur when two or more drugs react with each other. This drug-drug interaction may cause you to experience an unexpected side effect. Drug interactions may make your medications less effective, cause unexpected side effects, or increase the action of a particular drug. Some drug interactions can even be harmful to you. Be sure to read the label every time you use a nonprescription or prescription drug, and take the time to learn about drug interactions. These precautions may be critical to your health. You can reduce the risk of potentially harmful drug interactions and side effects with a little bit of knowledge and common sense.
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Drug labels contain important information about ingredients, uses, warnings, and directions which you should take the time to read and understand. Labels also include warnings about possible drug interactions. Further, drug labels may change as new information becomes available. This is why it’s especially important to read the label every time you use a medication. When your doctor prescribes a new drug, discuss all over-thecounter and prescription medications, dietary supplements, vitamins, botanicals, minerals and herbals you take as well as the foods you eat. Ask your pharmacist for the package insert for each prescription drug you take. The package insert provides more information about potential drug interactions.
A Final Warning At some point, you may hear of alternative medications from friends, relatives, or in the news media. Advertisements may suggest that certain alternative drugs can produce positive results for patients with toxoplasmosis. Exercise caution--some of these drugs may have fraudulent claims, and others may actually hurt you. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the official U.S. agency charged with discovering which medications are likely to improve the health of patients with toxoplasmosis. The FDA warns patients to watch out for44: ·
Secret formulas (real scientists share what they know)
·
Amazing breakthroughs or miracle cures (real breakthroughs don’t happen very often; when they do, real scientists do not call them amazing or miracles)
·
Quick, painless, or guaranteed cures
·
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.
If you have any questions about any kind of medical treatment, the FDA may have an office near you. Look for their number in the blue pages of the phone book. You can also contact the FDA through its toll-free number, 1888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332), or on the World Wide Web at www.fda.gov.
44
This section has been adapted from http://www.fda.gov/opacom/lowlit/medfraud.html.
Researching Your Medications 147
General References In addition to the resources provided earlier in this chapter, the following general references describe medications (sorted alphabetically by title; hyperlinks provide rankings, information and reviews at Amazon.com): · Approaches to Design and Synthesis of Antiparasitic Drugs by Satyavan Sharma, et al; Hardcover - 524 pages (October 1, 1997), Elsevier Science; ISBN: 0444894764; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0444894764/icongroupinterna · Drug Interactions in Infectious Diseases (Infectious Disease) by Stephen C. Piscitelli (Editor), et al; Hardcover - 372 pages (September 2000), Humana Press; ISBN: 0896037509; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0896037509/icongroupinterna · Management of Antimicrobials in Infectious Diseases: Impact of Antibiotic Resistance by Arch G. Mainous, Ph.D. (Editor), et al; Hardcover - 350 pages, 1st edition (January 15, 2001), Humana Press; ISBN: 0896038211; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0896038211/icongroupinterna
Vocabulary Builder The following vocabulary builder gives definitions of words used in this chapter that have not been defined in previous chapters: Spiramycin: A macrolide antibiotic produced by Streptomyces ambofaciens. The drug is effective against gram-positive aerobic pathogens, N. gonorrhoeae, and staphylococci. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria and Toxoplasma gondii. [NIH] Sulfisoxazole: One of the antibacterial sulfonamides generally used for treatment of infections. It is bacteriostatic against a wide range of gramnegative and gram-positive organisms, but acquired resistance is common. [NIH]
Topical: Pertaining to a particular surface area, as a topical anti-infective applied to a certain area of the skin and affecting only the area to which it is applied. [EU] Vaginal: 1. of the nature of a sheath; ensheathing. 2. pertaining to the vagina. 3. pertaining to the tunica vaginalis testis. [EU]
Researching Alternative Medicine 149
APPENDIX B. RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Overview Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is one of the most contentious aspects of modern medical practice. You may have heard of these treatments on the radio or on television. Maybe you have seen articles written about these treatments in magazines, newspapers, or books. Perhaps your friends or doctor have mentioned alternatives. In this chapter, we will begin by giving you a broad perspective on complementary and alternative therapies. Next, we will introduce you to official information sources on CAM relating to toxoplasmosis. Finally, at the conclusion of this chapter, we will provide a list of readings on toxoplasmosis from various authors. We will begin, however, with the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine’s (NCCAM) overview of complementary and alternative medicine.
What Is CAM?45 Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) covers a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies. Generally, it is defined as those treatments and healthcare practices which are not taught in medical schools, used in hospitals, or reimbursed by medical insurance companies. Many CAM therapies are termed “holistic,” which generally means that the healthcare practitioner considers the whole person, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Some of these therapies are also known as “preventive,” which means that the practitioner educates and 45
Adapted from the NCCAM: http://nccam.nih.gov/nccam/fcp/faq/index.html#what-is.
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treats the person to prevent health problems from arising, rather than treating symptoms after problems have occurred. People use CAM treatments and therapies in a variety of ways. Therapies are used alone (often referred to as alternative), in combination with other alternative therapies, or in addition to conventional treatment (sometimes referred to as complementary). Complementary and alternative medicine, or “integrative medicine,” includes a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies. Some approaches are consistent with physiological principles of Western medicine, while others constitute healing systems with non-Western origins. While some therapies are far outside the realm of accepted Western medical theory and practice, others are becoming established in mainstream medicine. Complementary and alternative therapies are used in an effort to prevent illness, reduce stress, prevent or reduce side effects and symptoms, or control or cure disease. Some commonly used methods of complementary or alternative therapy include mind/body control interventions such as visualization and relaxation, manual healing including acupressure and massage, homeopathy, vitamins or herbal products, and acupuncture.
What Are the Domains of Alternative Medicine?46 The list of CAM practices changes continually. The reason being is that these new practices and therapies are often proved to be safe and effective, and therefore become generally accepted as “mainstream” healthcare practices. Today, CAM practices may be grouped within five major domains: (1) alternative medical systems, (2) mind-body interventions, (3) biologicallybased treatments, (4) manipulative and body-based methods, and (5) energy therapies. The individual systems and treatments comprising these categories are too numerous to list in this sourcebook. Thus, only limited examples are provided within each. Alternative Medical Systems Alternative medical systems involve complete systems of theory and practice that have evolved independent of, and often prior to, conventional biomedical approaches. Many are traditional systems of medicine that are
46
Adapted from the NCCAM: http://nccam.nih.gov/nccam/fcp/classify/index.html.
Researching Alternative Medicine 151
practiced by individual cultures throughout the world, including a number of venerable Asian approaches. Traditional oriental medicine emphasizes the balance or disturbances of qi (pronounced chi) or vital energy in health and disease, respectively. Traditional oriental medicine consists of a group of techniques and methods including acupuncture, herbal medicine, oriental massage, and qi gong (a form of energy therapy). Acupuncture involves stimulating specific anatomic points in the body for therapeutic purposes, usually by puncturing the skin with a thin needle. Ayurveda is India’s traditional system of medicine. Ayurvedic medicine (meaning “science of life”) is a comprehensive system of medicine that places equal emphasis on body, mind, and spirit. Ayurveda strives to restore the innate harmony of the individual. Some of the primary Ayurvedic treatments include diet, exercise, meditation, herbs, massage, exposure to sunlight, and controlled breathing. Other traditional healing systems have been developed by the world’s indigenous populations. These populations include Native American, Aboriginal, African, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and Central and South American cultures. Homeopathy and naturopathy are also examples of complete alternative medicine systems. Homeopathic medicine is an unconventional Western system that is based on the principle that “like cures like,” i.e., that the same substance that in large doses produces the symptoms of an illness, in very minute doses cures it. Homeopathic health practitioners believe that the more dilute the remedy, the greater its potency. Therefore, they use small doses of specially prepared plant extracts and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to treat illness. Naturopathic medicine is based on the theory that disease is a manifestation of alterations in the processes by which the body naturally heals itself and emphasizes health restoration rather than disease treatment. Naturopathic physicians employ an array of healing practices, including the following: diet and clinical nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy (the use of water in a range of temperatures and methods of applications), spinal and soft-tissue manipulation, physical therapies (such as those involving electrical currents, ultrasound, and light), therapeutic counseling, and pharmacology.
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Mind-Body Interventions Mind-body interventions employ a variety of techniques designed to facilitate the mind’s capacity to affect bodily function and symptoms. Only a select group of mind-body interventions having well-documented theoretical foundations are considered CAM. For example, patient education and cognitive-behavioral approaches are now considered “mainstream.” On the other hand, complementary and alternative medicine includes meditation, certain uses of hypnosis, dance, music, and art therapy, as well as prayer and mental healing.
Biological-Based Therapies This category of CAM includes natural and biological-based practices, interventions, and products, many of which overlap with conventional medicine’s use of dietary supplements. This category includes herbal, special dietary, orthomolecular, and individual biological therapies. Herbal therapy employs an individual herb or a mixture of herbs for healing purposes. An herb is a plant or plant part that produces and contains chemical substances that act upon the body. Special diet therapies, such as those proposed by Drs. Atkins, Ornish, Pritikin, and Weil, are believed to prevent and/or control illness as well as promote health. Orthomolecular therapies aim to treat disease with varying concentrations of chemicals such as magnesium, melatonin, and mega-doses of vitamins. Biological therapies include, for example, the use of laetrile and shark cartilage to treat cancer and the use of bee pollen to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Manipulative and Body-Based Methods This category includes methods that are based on manipulation and/or movement of the body. For example, chiropractors focus on the relationship between structure and function, primarily pertaining to the spine, and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health. Chiropractors use manipulative therapy as an integral treatment tool. In contrast, osteopaths place particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system and practice osteopathic manipulation. Osteopaths believe that all of the body’s systems work together and that disturbances in one system may have an impact upon function elsewhere in the body. Massage therapists manipulate the soft tissues of the body to normalize those tissues.
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Energy Therapies Energy therapies focus on energy fields originating within the body (biofields) or those from other sources (electromagnetic fields). Biofield therapies are intended to affect energy fields (the existence of which is not yet experimentally proven) that surround and penetrate the human body. Some forms of energy therapy manipulate biofields by applying pressure and/or manipulating the body by placing the hands in or through these fields. Examples include Qi gong, Reiki and Therapeutic Touch. Qi gong is a component of traditional oriental medicine that combines movement, meditation, and regulation of breathing to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi) in the body, improve blood circulation, and enhance immune function. Reiki, the Japanese word representing Universal Life Energy, is based on the belief that, by channeling spiritual energy through the practitioner, the spirit is healed and, in turn, heals the physical body. Therapeutic Touch is derived from the ancient technique of “laying-on of hands.” It is based on the premises that the therapist’s healing force affects the patient’s recovery and that healing is promoted when the body’s energies are in balance. By passing their hands over the patient, these healers identify energy imbalances. Bioelectromagnetic-based therapies involve the unconventional use of electromagnetic fields to treat illnesses or manage pain. These therapies are often used to treat asthma, cancer, and migraine headaches. Types of electromagnetic fields which are manipulated in these therapies include pulsed fields, magnetic fields, and alternating current or direct current fields.
Can Alternatives Affect My Treatment? A critical issue in pursuing complementary alternatives mentioned thus far is the risk that these might have undesirable interactions with your medical treatment. It becomes all the more important to speak with your doctor who can offer advice on the use of alternatives. Official sources confirm this view. Though written for women, we find that the National Women’s Health Information Center’s advice on pursuing alternative medicine is appropriate for patients of both genders and all ages.47
47
Adapted from http://www.4woman.gov/faq/alternative.htm.
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Is It Okay to Want Both Traditional and Alternative Medicine? Should you wish to explore non-traditional types of treatment, be sure to discuss all issues concerning treatments and therapies with your healthcare provider, whether a physician or practitioner of complementary and alternative medicine. Competent healthcare management requires knowledge of both conventional and alternative therapies you are taking for the practitioner to have a complete picture of your treatment plan. The decision to use complementary and alternative treatments is an important one. Consider before selecting an alternative therapy, the safety and effectiveness of the therapy or treatment, the expertise and qualifications of the healthcare practitioner, and the quality of delivery. These topics should be considered when selecting any practitioner or therapy.
Finding CAM References on Toxoplasmosis Having read the previous discussion, you may be wondering which complementary or alternative treatments might be appropriate for toxoplasmosis. For the remainder of this chapter, we will direct you to a number of official sources which can assist you in researching studies and publications. Some of these articles are rather technical, so some patience may be required. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health (http://nccam.nih.gov) has created a link to the National Library of Medicine’s databases to allow patients to search for articles that specifically relate to toxoplasmosis and complementary medicine. To search the database, go to the following Web site: www.nlm.nih.gov/nccam/camonpubmed.html. Select “CAM on PubMed.” Enter “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box. Click “Go.” The following references provide information on particular aspects of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that are related to toxoplasmosis: ·
A morphologic study of opportunistic cerebral toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Ghatak NR, Sawyer DR.
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Source: Acta Neuropathologica. 1978 June 30; 42(3): 217-21. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=676670&dopt=Abstract ·
Acute toxoplasma infection of mice induces spleen NK cells that are cytotoxic for T. gondii in vitro. Author(s): Hauser WE Jr, Tsai V. Source: Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). 1986 January; 136(1): 313-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=3079610&dopt=Abstract
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Current status of food-borne parasitic zoonoses in South Africa and Namibia. Author(s): Joubert JJ, Evans AC. Source: Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 1997; 28 Suppl 1: 7-10. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=9656339&dopt=Abstract
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Effects of anticoagulants on the dye test for toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Kobayashi A, Kumada M, Tsunematsu Y. Source: Jpn J Med Sci Biol. 1968 February; 21(1): 71-89. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=4968367&dopt=Abstract
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Effects of immobilization stress on the pathogenesis of acute murine toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Chao CC, Peterson PK, Filice GA, Pomeroy C, Sharp BM. Source: Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. 1990 June; 4(2): 162-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=2393725&dopt=Abstract
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How do Jains get toxoplasma infection? Author(s): Hall SM, Pandit A, Golwilkar A, Williams TS. Source: Lancet. 1999 August 7; 354(9177): 486-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=10465181&dopt=Abstract
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Prophylactic effect of tea on pathogenic microorganism infections to humans and animals. (II). Protozoacidal effect on Toxoplasma gondii in
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vitro and mice. Author(s): Ryu E. Source: Int J Zoonoses. 1982 December; 9(2): 126-31. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=7169306&dopt=Abstract ·
Retrovesical squamous cell carcinoma associated with toxoplasmosis: diagnostic images, serum detection of SCC-antigen, and successful treatment by M-VAC regimen. Author(s): Tada K, Takeuchi T, Tanaka T, Iwata H, Kanematsu M, Kuriyama M, Ban Y, Kawada Y. Source: Journal of Surgical Oncology. 1989 January; 40(1): 61-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=2642569&dopt=Abstract
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Review of toxoplasmosis in Malaysia. Author(s): Yahaya N. Source: Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 1991 December; 22 Suppl: 102-6. Review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=1822863&dopt=Abstract
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Strategy for diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii in stereotactic brain biopsies. Author(s): Zimmer C, Daeschlein G, Patt S, Weigel K. Source: Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery. 1991; 56(1): 66-75. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=1719595&dopt=Abstract
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The effect of zinc supplementation in experimentally induced Toxoplasma gondii infection. Author(s): Tasci S, Sengil AZ, Altindis M, Arisoy K. Source: J Egypt Soc Parasitol. 1995 December; 25(3): 745-51. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=8586868&dopt=Abstract
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Toxoplasma encephalitis complicating Hodgkin's disease. Author(s): Whiteside JD, Begent RH. Source: Journal of Clinical Pathology. 1975 June; 28(6): 443-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=1141443&dopt=Abstract
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·
Toxoplasma gondii: purification and characterization of an immunogenic metallopeptidase. Author(s): Berthonneau J, Rodier MH, El Moudni B, Jacquemin JL. Source: Experimental Parasitology. 2000 June; 95(2): 158-62. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=10910719&dopt=Abstract
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Toxoplasmic encephalitis in a non-HIV patient with follicular lymphoma. Author(s): Touahri T, Pulik M, Fezoui H, Genet P, Lionnet F, Louvel D. Source: International Journal of Hematology. 2002 January; 75(1): 111-2. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=11843284&dopt=Abstract
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Trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole rechallenge in 20 previously allergic HIV-infected patients after homeopathic. Author(s): Bissuel F, Cotte L, Crapanne JB, Rougier P, Schlienger I, Trepo C. Source: Aids (London, England). 1995 April; 9(4): 407-8. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db= PubMed&list_uids=7794554&dopt=Abstract
Additional Web Resources A number of additional Web sites offer encyclopedic information covering CAM and related topics. The following is a representative sample: ·
Alternative Medicine Foundation, Inc.: http://www.herbmed.org/
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AOL: http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=169&layer=&from=subcats
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Chinese Medicine: http://www.newcenturynutrition.com/
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drkoop.comÒ: http://www.drkoop.com/InteractiveMedicine/IndexC.html
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Family Village: http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/med_altn.htm
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Google: http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Alternative/
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Healthnotes: http://www.thedacare.org/healthnotes/
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Open Directory Project: http://dmoz.org/Health/Alternative/
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TPN.com: http://www.tnp.com/
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·
Yahoo.com: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/Alternative_Medicine/
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WebMDÒHealth: http://my.webmd.com/drugs_and_herbs
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WellNet: http://www.wellnet.ca/herbsa-c.htm
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WholeHealthMD.com: http://www.wholehealthmd.com/reflib/0,1529,,00.html
The following is a specific Web list relating to toxoplasmosis; please note that any particular subject below may indicate either a therapeutic use, or a contraindication (potential danger), and does not reflect an official recommendation: ·
General Overview Immune Function Source: Healthnotes, Inc.; www.healthnotes.com Hyperlink: http://www.thedacare.org/healthnotes/Concern/Immune_Function .htm Uveitis Source: Integrative Medicine Communications; www.onemedicine.com Hyperlink: http://www.drkoop.com/interactivemedicine/ConsConditions/Uve itiscc.html
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Herbs and Supplements Anti-Protozoal Drugs Source: Healthnotes, Inc.; www.healthnotes.com Hyperlink: http://www.thedacare.org/healthnotes/Drug/Anti_Protozoals.htm
General References A good place to find general background information on CAM is the National Library of Medicine. It has prepared within the MEDLINEplus system an information topic page dedicated to complementary and alternative medicine. To access this page, go to the MEDLINEplus site at:
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www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alternativemedicine.html. This Web site provides a general overview of various topics and can lead to a number of general sources. The following additional references describe, in broad terms, alternative and complementary medicine (sorted alphabetically by title; hyperlinks provide rankings, information, and reviews at Amazon.com): · Alternative Medicine for Dummies by James Dillard (Author); Audio Cassette, Abridged edition (1998), Harper Audio; ISBN: 0694520659; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0694520659/icongroupinterna ·
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Secrets by W. Kohatsu (Editor); Hardcover (2001), Hanley & Belfus; ISBN: 1560534400; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1560534400/icongroupinterna
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Dictionary of Alternative Medicine by J. C. Segen; Paperback-2nd edition (2001), Appleton & Lange; ISBN: 0838516211; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0838516211/icongroupinterna
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Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy: The Harvard Medical School Guide to Healthy Eating by Walter C. Willett, MD, et al; Hardcover - 352 pages (2001), Simon & Schuster; ISBN: 0684863375; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0684863375/icongroupinterna
· Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, Revised 2nd Edition by Michael T. Murray, Joseph E. Pizzorno; Paperback - 960 pages, 2nd Rev edition (1997), Prima Publishing; ISBN: 0761511571; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0761511571/icongroupinterna ·
Integrative Medicine: An Introduction to the Art & Science of Healing by Andrew Weil (Author); Audio Cassette, Unabridged edition (2001), Sounds True; ISBN: 1564558541; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1564558541/icongroupinterna
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Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics by John McKenna; Paperback - 176 pages (November 1998), Avery Penguin Putnam; ISBN: 0895298392; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0895298392/icongroupinterna
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New Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses by Deni Bown; Hardcover - 448 pages, Revised edition (2001), DK Publishing; ISBN: 078948031X; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/078948031X/icongroupinterna
· Textbook of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by Wayne B. Jonas; Hardcover (2003), Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins; ISBN: 0683044370; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0683044370/icongroupinterna
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For additional information on complementary and alternative medicine, ask your doctor or write to: National Institutes of Health National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Clearinghouse P. O. Box 8218 Silver Spring, MD 20907-8218
Vocabulary Builder The following vocabulary builder gives definitions of words used in this chapter that have not been defined in previous chapters: Hematology: A subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with morphology, physiology, and pathology of the blood and blood-forming tissues. [NIH] Leukaemia: An acute or chronic disease of unknown cause in man and other warm-blooded animals that involves the blood-forming organs, is characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of leucocytes in the tissues of the body with or without a corresponding increase of those in the circulating blood, and is classified according of the type leucocyte most prominently involved. [EU] Maxillary: Pertaining to the maxilla : the irregularly shaped bone that with its fellow forms the upper jaw. [EU]
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APPENDIX C. RESEARCHING NUTRITION Overview Since the time of Hippocrates, doctors have understood the importance of diet and nutrition to patients’ health and well-being. Since then, they have accumulated an impressive archive of studies and knowledge dedicated to this subject. Based on their experience, doctors and healthcare providers may recommend particular dietary supplements to patients with toxoplasmosis. Any dietary recommendation is based on a patient’s age, body mass, gender, lifestyle, eating habits, food preferences, and health condition. It is therefore likely that different patients with toxoplasmosis may be given different recommendations. Some recommendations may be directly related to toxoplasmosis, while others may be more related to the patient’s general health. These recommendations, themselves, may differ from what official sources recommend for the average person. In this chapter we will begin by briefly reviewing the essentials of diet and nutrition that will broadly frame more detailed discussions of toxoplasmosis. We will then show you how to find studies dedicated specifically to nutrition and toxoplasmosis.
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Food and Nutrition: General Principles What Are Essential Foods? Food is generally viewed by official sources as consisting of six basic elements: (1) fluids, (2) carbohydrates, (3) protein, (4) fats, (5) vitamins, and (6) minerals. Consuming a combination of these elements is considered to be a healthy diet: ·
Fluids are essential to human life as 80-percent of the body is composed of water. Water is lost via urination, sweating, diarrhea, vomiting, diuretics (drugs that increase urination), caffeine, and physical exertion.
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Carbohydrates are the main source for human energy (thermoregulation) and the bulk of typical diets. They are mostly classified as being either simple or complex. Simple carbohydrates include sugars which are often consumed in the form of cookies, candies, or cakes. Complex carbohydrates consist of starches and dietary fibers. Starches are consumed in the form of pastas, breads, potatoes, rice, and other foods. Soluble fibers can be eaten in the form of certain vegetables, fruits, oats, and legumes. Insoluble fibers include brown rice, whole grains, certain fruits, wheat bran and legumes.
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Proteins are eaten to build and repair human tissues. Some foods that are high in protein are also high in fat and calories. Food sources for protein include nuts, meat, fish, cheese, and other dairy products.
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Fats are consumed for both energy and the absorption of certain vitamins. There are many types of fats, with many general publications recommending the intake of unsaturated fats or those low in cholesterol.
Vitamins and minerals are fundamental to human health, growth, and, in some cases, disease prevention. Most are consumed in your diet (exceptions being vitamins K and D which are produced by intestinal bacteria and sunlight on the skin, respectively). Each vitamin and mineral plays a different role in health. The following outlines essential vitamins: ·
Vitamin A is important to the health of your eyes, hair, bones, and skin; sources of vitamin A include foods such as eggs, carrots, and cantaloupe.
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Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is important for your nervous system and energy production; food sources for thiamine include meat, peas, fortified cereals, bread, and whole grains.
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Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is important for your nervous system and muscles, but is also involved in the release of proteins from
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nutrients; food sources for riboflavin include dairy products, leafy vegetables, meat, and eggs. ·
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is important for healthy skin and helps the body use energy; food sources for niacin include peas, peanuts, fish, and whole grains
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Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is important for the regulation of cells in the nervous system and is vital for blood formation; food sources for pyridoxine include bananas, whole grains, meat, and fish.
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Vitamin B12 is vital for a healthy nervous system and for the growth of red blood cells in bone marrow; food sources for vitamin B12 include yeast, milk, fish, eggs, and meat.
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Vitamin C allows the body’s immune system to fight various diseases, strengthens body tissue, and improves the body’s use of iron; food sources for vitamin C include a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.
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Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium which strengthens bones and teeth; food sources for vitamin D include oily fish and dairy products.
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Vitamin E can help protect certain organs and tissues from various degenerative diseases; food sources for vitamin E include margarine, vegetables, eggs, and fish.
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Vitamin K is essential for bone formation and blood clotting; common food sources for vitamin K include leafy green vegetables.
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Folic Acid maintains healthy cells and blood and, when taken by a pregnant woman, can prevent her fetus from developing neural tube defects; food sources for folic acid include nuts, fortified breads, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains.
It should be noted that one can overdose on certain vitamins which become toxic if consumed in excess (e.g. vitamin A, D, E and K). Like vitamins, minerals are chemicals that are required by the body to remain in good health. Because the human body does not manufacture these chemicals internally, we obtain them from food and other dietary sources. The more important minerals include: ·
Calcium is needed for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles, but also helps the nervous system function; food sources for calcium include dry beans, peas, eggs, and dairy products.
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Chromium is helpful in regulating sugar levels in blood; food sources for chromium include egg yolks, raw sugar, cheese, nuts, beets, whole grains, and meat.
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Fluoride is used by the body to help prevent tooth decay and to reinforce bone strength; sources of fluoride include drinking water and certain brands of toothpaste.
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Iodine helps regulate the body’s use of energy by synthesizing into the hormone thyroxine; food sources include leafy green vegetables, nuts, egg yolks, and red meat.
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Iron helps maintain muscles and the formation of red blood cells and certain proteins; food sources for iron include meat, dairy products, eggs, and leafy green vegetables.
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Magnesium is important for the production of DNA, as well as for healthy teeth, bones, muscles, and nerves; food sources for magnesium include dried fruit, dark green vegetables, nuts, and seafood.
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Phosphorous is used by the body to work with calcium to form bones and teeth; food sources for phosphorous include eggs, meat, cereals, and dairy products.
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Selenium primarily helps maintain normal heart and liver functions; food sources for selenium include wholegrain cereals, fish, meat, and dairy products.
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Zinc helps wounds heal, the formation of sperm, and encourage rapid growth and energy; food sources include dried beans, shellfish, eggs, and nuts.
The United States government periodically publishes recommended diets and consumption levels of the various elements of food. Again, your doctor may encourage deviations from the average official recommendation based on your specific condition. To learn more about basic dietary guidelines, visit the Web site: http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/. Based on these guidelines, many foods are required to list the nutrition levels on the food’s packaging. Labeling Requirements are listed at the following site maintained by the Food and Drug Administration: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/labcons.html. When interpreting these requirements, the government recommends that consumers become familiar with the following abbreviations before reading FDA literature:48 ·
DVs (Daily Values): A new dietary reference term that will appear on the food label. It is made up of two sets of references, DRVs and RDIs.
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DRVs (Daily Reference Values): A set of dietary references that applies to fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, carbohydrate, protein, fiber, sodium, and potassium.
48
Adapted from the FDA: http://www.fda.gov/fdac/special/foodlabel/dvs.html.
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·
RDIs (Reference Daily Intakes): A set of dietary references based on the Recommended Dietary Allowances for essential vitamins and minerals and, in selected groups, protein. The name “RDI” replaces the term “U.S. RDA.”
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RDAs (Recommended Dietary Allowances): A set of estimated nutrient allowances established by the National Academy of Sciences. It is updated periodically to reflect current scientific knowledge. What Are Dietary Supplements?49
Dietary supplements are widely available through many commercial sources, including health food stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and by mail. Dietary supplements are provided in many forms including tablets, capsules, powders, gel-tabs, extracts, and liquids. Historically in the United States, the most prevalent type of dietary supplement was a multivitamin/mineral tablet or capsule that was available in pharmacies, either by prescription or “over the counter.” Supplements containing strictly herbal preparations were less widely available. Currently in the United States, a wide array of supplement products are available, including vitamin, mineral, other nutrients, and botanical supplements as well as ingredients and extracts of animal and plant origin. The Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) of the National Institutes of Health is the official agency of the United States which has the expressed goal of acquiring “new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat disease and disability, from the rarest genetic disorder to the common cold.”50 According to the ODS, dietary supplements can have an important impact on the prevention and management of disease and on the maintenance of health.51 The ODS notes that considerable research on the effects of dietary supplements has been conducted in Asia and Europe where This discussion has been adapted from the NIH: http://ods.od.nih.gov/whatare/whatare.html. 50 Contact: The Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Building 31, Room 1B29, 31 Center Drive, MSC 2086, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2086, Tel: (301) 435-2920, Fax: (301) 480-1845, E-mail:
[email protected]. 51 Adapted from http://ods.od.nih.gov/about/about.html. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act defines dietary supplements as “a product (other than tobacco) intended to supplement the diet that bears or contains one or more of the following dietary ingredients: a vitamin, mineral, amino acid, herb or other botanical; or a dietary substance for use to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake; or a concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combination of any ingredient described above; and intended for ingestion in the form of a capsule, powder, softgel, or gelcap, and not represented as a conventional food or as a sole item of a meal or the diet.” 49
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the use of plant products, in particular, has a long tradition. However, the overwhelming majority of supplements have not been studied scientifically. To explore the role of dietary supplements in the improvement of health care, the ODS plans, organizes, and supports conferences, workshops, and symposia on scientific topics related to dietary supplements. The ODS often works in conjunction with other NIH Institutes and Centers, other government agencies, professional organizations, and public advocacy groups. To learn more about official information on dietary supplements, visit the ODS site at http://ods.od.nih.gov/whatare/whatare.html. Or contact: The Office of Dietary Supplements National Institutes of Health Building 31, Room 1B29 31 Center Drive, MSC 2086 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2086 Tel: (301) 435-2920 Fax: (301) 480-1845 E-mail:
[email protected] Finding Studies on Toxoplasmosis The NIH maintains an office dedicated to patient nutrition and diet. The National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) offers a searchable bibliographic database called the IBIDS (International Bibliographic Information on Dietary Supplements). The IBIDS contains over 460,000 scientific citations and summaries about dietary supplements and nutrition as well as references to published international, scientific literature on dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and botanicals.52 IBIDS is available to the public free of charge through the ODS Internet page: http://ods.od.nih.gov/databases/ibids.html. After entering the search area, you have three choices: (1) IBIDS Consumer Database, (2) Full IBIDS Database, or (3) Peer Reviewed Citations Only. We recommend that you start with the Consumer Database. While you may not find references for the topics that are of most interest to you, check back Adapted from http://ods.od.nih.gov. IBIDS is produced by the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) at the National Institutes of Health to assist the public, healthcare providers, educators, and researchers in locating credible, scientific information on dietary supplements. IBIDS was developed and will be maintained through an interagency partnership with the Food and Nutrition Information Center of the National Agricultural Library, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
52
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periodically as this database is frequently updated. More studies can be found by searching the Full IBIDS Database. Healthcare professionals and researchers generally use the third option, which lists peer-reviewed citations. In all cases, we suggest that you take advantage of the “Advanced Search” option that allows you to retrieve up to 100 fully explained references in a comprehensive format. Type “toxoplasmosis” (or synonyms) into the search box. To narrow the search, you can also select the “Title” field. The following information is typical of that found when using the “Full IBIDS Database” when searching using “toxoplasmosis” (or a synonym): ·
Aetiology of thyroidal dysfunction in murine toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Department of Infectious Diseases, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1143 (Japan) Source: Stahl, W. Kaneda, Y. Parasitology (United Kingdom). (1998). volume 117(3) page 223-227. thyroxine pituitary gland brain aetiology toxoplasmosis mice experimental infection in vivo experimentation laboratory animals toxoplasma gondii thyrotropin thyroid gland physiological functions pathology Summary: thyroxine hypophyse encephale etiologie toxoplasmose souris infection experimentale experimentation in vivo animal de laboratoire toxoplasma gondii thyrotropine thyroide fonction physiologique pathologie
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Contribution of extrathymic gammadelta T cells to the expression of heat-shock protein and to protective immunity in mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Author(s): Department of Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Tokushima, 3 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770 (Japan) Source: Hisaeda, H. Sakai, T. Nagasawa, H. Ishikawa, H. Yasutomo, K. Maekawa, Y. Himeno, K. Immunology (United Kingdom). (1996). volume 88(4) page 551-557. toxoplasmosis human diseases animal diseases laboratory animals experimental infection in vivo experimentation hosts thymus genus genes macrophages toxoplasma gondii mice immune response lymphocytes heat stress proteins Summary: toxoplasmose maladie de l' homme maladie des animaux animal de laboratoire infection experimentale experimentation in vivo hote thymus genre gene macrophage toxoplasma gondii souris reponse immunitaire lymphocyte stress thermique proteine
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Impaired thyroid function in murine toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Department of Infectious Diseases, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1143 (Japan)
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Source: Stahl, W. Kaneda, Y. Parasitology (United Kingdom). (1998). volume 117(3) page 217-222. thyroid gland physiological functions toxoplasmosis thyroxine mice laboratory animals experimental infection in vivo experimentation toxoplasma gondii pathology Summary: thyroide fonction physiologique toxoplasmose thyroxine souris animal de laboratoire infection experimentale experimentation in vivo toxoplasma gondii pathologie ·
Toxoplasma gondii triggers granulocyte-dependent cytokine-mediated lethal shock in D-Galactosamine-sensitized mice. Author(s): Cornell University, Ithaca, NY. Source: Marshall, A.J. Denkers, E.Y. Infection-and-immunity (USA). (April 1998). volume 66(4) page 1325-1333. mice toxoplasma gondii toxoplasmosis toxicity shock death amino sugars cytokines interleukins interferons nitric oxide liver aspartate aminotransferase alanine enzymic activity histopathology granulocytes 0019-9567 Summary: souris toxoplasma gondii toxoplasmose toxicite choc mort aminosucre cytokine interleukine interferon oxyde nitrique foie aspartate aminotransferase alanine activite enzymatique histopathologie granulocyte
Additional physician-oriented references include: ·
A polymorphism in a DNA polymerase alpha gene intron differentiates between murine virulent and avirulent strains of Toxoplasma gondii. Source: Binas, M. Johnson, A.M. Int-j-parasitol. Oxford : Elsevier Science Ltd. July 1998. volume 28 (7) page 1033-1040. 0020-7519
·
Acute and chronic phases of Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice modulate the host immune responses. Author(s): Microbiology Unit, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium. Source: Nguyen, T D Bigaignon, G Van Broeck, J Vercammen, M Nguyen, T N Delmee, M Turneer, M Wolf, S F Coutelier, J P Infect-Immun. 1998 June; 66(6): 2991-5 0019-9567
·
Alteration of intracellular calcium flux and impairment of nuclear factor-AT translocation in T cells during acute Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice. Author(s): Department of Medicine and Microbiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
[email protected] Source: Haque, S Dumon, H Haque, A Kasper, L H J-Immunol. 1998 December 15; 161(12): 6812-8 0022-1767
Researching Nutrition 169
·
Anti-Toxoplasma activity of vegetal extracts used in West African traditional medicine. Author(s): Laboratoire d'Immunologie et Parasitologie, Faculte de Pharmacie, Montpellier. Source: Benoit Vical, F Santillana Hayat, M Kone Bamba, D Mallie, M Derouin, F Parasite. 2000 March; 7(1): 3-7 1252-607X
·
Antitoxoplasma antibody in clinically suspected cases of human toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Department of Microbiology & Paediatric Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Source: Kar, S Sen, M R Gangopadhyay, A N Sen, P C Indian-J-Med-Sci. 1990 April; 44(4): 83-9 0019-5359
·
Assessment of the activity of atovaquone-loaded nanocapsules in the treatment of acute and chronic murine toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hopital Saint-Louis, Paris, France. Source: Sordet, F Aumjaud, Y Fessi, H Derouin, F Parasite. 1998 September; 5(3): 223-9 1252-607X
·
Atovaquone for the treatment of toxoplasma retinochoroiditis in immunocompetent patients. Author(s): Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536, USA. Source: Pearson, P A Piracha, A R Sen, H A Jaffe, G J Ophthalmology. 1999 January; 106(1): 148-53 0161-6420
·
Atovaquone nanosuspensions show excellent therapeutic effect in a new murine model of reactivated toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Institute for Infection Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology of Infection, Benjamin Franklin Medical Center, D-12203 Berlin, Germany. Source: Scholer, N Krause, K Kayser, O Muller, R H Borner, K Hahn, H Liesenfeld, O Antimicrob-Agents-Chemother. 2001 June; 45(6): 1771-9 0066-4804
·
Bilateral sudden deafness and acute acquired toxoplasmosis. Author(s): Department of Audiology, Gentofte University Hospital. Source: Katholm, M Johnsen, N J Siim, C Willumsen, L J-Laryngol-Otol. 1991 February; 105(2): 115-8 0022-2151
·
Biostatic activity of Coix lacryma seed extract on Toxoplasma gondii in macrophages. Author(s): Department of Parasitology Wonkwang University Medical College.
170 Toxoplasmosis
Source: Soh, C T Kim, S H Kim, K Y Park, H Chung, H T Kim, T U Jeon, S M Han, Y B Korean-J-Parasitol. 1996 September; 34(3): 197-206 0023-4001 ·
CD4-mediated and CD8-mediated cytotoxic and proliferative immune responses to Toxoplasma gondii in seropositive humans. Source: Purner, M.B. Berens, R.L. Nash, P.B. Van Linden, A. Ross, E. Kruse, C. Krug, E.C. Curiel, T.J. Infect-immun. Washington, D.C., American Society for Microbiology. October 1996. volume 64 (10) page 4330-4338. 0019-9567
·
Central-nervous-system toxoplasmosis in homosexual men and parenteral drug abusers. Source: Wong, B. Gold, J.W.M. Brown, A.E. Lange, M. Fried, R. AnnIntern-Med. Philadelphia : American College of Physicians. January 1984 volume 100 (1) page 36-42. 0003-4819
·
Cerebral toxoplasmosis - a late complication of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Author(s): Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenija. Source: Zver, S Cernelc, P Mlakar, U Pretnar, J Bone-Marrow-Transplant. 1999 December; 24(12): 1363-5 0268-3369
·
Characterization of cytochrome b from Toxoplasma gondii and Q(o) domain mutations as a mechanism of atovaquone-resistance. Author(s): Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA. Source: McFadden, D C Tomavo, S Berry, E A Boothroyd, J C MolBiochem-Parasitol. 2000 April 30; 108(1): 1-12 0166-6851
·
Characterization of ribonuclease P from Toxoplasma gondii. Author(s): Dept. of Chem. and Biol. Sciences, Ill. Inst. of Tech., Chicago. Source: Mack, D McLeod, R Stark, B J-Eukaryot-Microbiol. 1994 SepOctober; 41(5): 13S 1066-5234
·
Cloning and characterization of a bradyzoite-specifically expressed gene (hsp30/bag1) of Toxoplasma gondii, related to genes encoding small heat-shock proteins of plants. Source: Bohne, W. Gross, U. Ferguson, D.J.P. Heesemann, J. Molmicrobiol. Oxford : Blackwell Scientific Publications,. June 1995. volume 16 (6) page 1221-1230. 0950-382X
·
Congenital toxoplasmosis: prenatal diagnosis, treatment and postnatal outcome. Author(s): Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Source: Friedman, S Ford Jones, L E Toi, A Ryan, G Blaser, S Chitayat, D Prenat-Diagn. 1999 April; 19(4): 330-3 0197-3851
Researching Nutrition 171
·
Cytotoxic activity of 13-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid against Toxoplasma gondii. Author(s): Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195. Source: Henderson, W R Chi, E Y Parasitology. 1992 December; 105 ( Pt 3)343-7 0031-1820
·
Decreased seroprevalence for Toxoplasma gondii in Seventh Day Adventists in Maryland. Author(s): Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201, USA. Source: Roghmann, M C Faulkner, C T Lefkowitz, A Patton, S Zimmerman, J Morris, J G Am-J-Trop-Med-Hyg. 1999 May; 60(5): 790-2 0002-9637
·
Detection and characterization of DNA polymerase activity in Toxoplasma gondii. Author(s): Department of Microbiology, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, University of Technology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Source: Makioka, A Stavros, B Ellis, J T Johnson, A M Parasitology. 1993 August; 107 ( Pt 2)135-9 0031-1820
Federal Resources on Nutrition In addition to the IBIDS, the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provide many sources of information on general nutrition and health. Recommended resources include: ·
healthfinder®, HHS’s gateway to health information, including diet and nutrition: http://www.healthfinder.gov/scripts/SearchContext.asp?topic=238&page=0
·
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Web site dedicated to nutrition information: www.nutrition.gov
·
The Food and Drug Administration’s Web site for federal food safety information: www.foodsafety.gov
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The National Action Plan on Overweight and Obesity sponsored by the United States Surgeon General: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/obesity/
172 Toxoplasmosis
·
The Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition has an Internet site sponsored by the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/
·
Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture: http://www.usda.gov/cnpp/
·
Food and Nutrition Information Center, National Agricultural Library sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture: http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/
·
Food and Nutrition Service sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture: http://www.fns.usda.gov/fns/
Additional Web Resources A number of additional Web sites offer encyclopedic information covering food and nutrition. The following is a representative sample: ·
AOL: http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=174&layer=&from=subcats
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Family Village: http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/med_nutrition.html
·
Google: http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Nutrition/
·
Healthnotes: http://www.thedacare.org/healthnotes/
·
Open Directory Project: http://dmoz.org/Health/Nutrition/
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Yahoo.com: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/Nutrition/
·
WebMDÒHealth: http://my.webmd.com/nutrition
·
WholeHealthMD.com: http://www.wholehealthmd.com/reflib/0,1529,,00.html
Vocabulary Builder The following vocabulary builder defines words used in the references in this chapter that have not been defined in previous chapters: Aetiology: Study of the causes of disease. [EU] Alanine: A non-essential amino acid that occurs in high levels in its free state in plasma. It is produced from pyruvate by transamination. It is involved in sugar and acid metabolism, increases immunity, and provides energy for muscle tissue, brain, and the central nervous system. [NIH]
Researching Nutrition 173
Bilateral: Having two sides, or pertaining to both sides. [EU] Capsules: Hard or soft soluble containers used for the oral administration of medicine. [NIH] Cholesterol: The principal sterol of all higher animals, distributed in body tissues, especially the brain and spinal cord, and in animal fats and oils. [NIH] Degenerative: Undergoing degeneration : tending to degenerate; having the character of or involving degeneration; causing or tending to cause degeneration. [EU] Granulocytes: Leukocytes with abundant granules in the cytoplasm. They are divided into three groups: neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. [NIH] Interferons: Proteins secreted by vertebrate cells in response to a wide variety of inducers. They confer resistance against many different viruses, inhibit proliferation of normal and malignant cells, impede multiplication of intracellular parasites, enhance macrophage and granulocyte phagocytosis, augment natural killer cell activity, and show several other immunomodulatory functions. [NIH] Interleukins: Soluble factors which stimulate growth-related activities of leukocytes as well as other cell types. They enhance cell proliferation and differentiation, DNA synthesis, secretion of other biologically active molecules and responses to immune and inflammatory stimuli. [NIH] Iodine: A nonmetallic element of the halogen group that is represented by the atomic symbol I, atomic number 53, and atomic weight of 126.90. It is a nutritionally essential element, especially important in thyroid hormone synthesis. In solution, it has anti-infective properties and is used topically. [NIH]
Niacin: Water-soluble vitamin of the B complex occurring in various animal and plant tissues. Required by the body for the formation of coenzymes NAD and NADP. Has pellagra-curative, vasodilating, and antilipemic properties. [NIH] Overdose: 1. to administer an excessive dose. 2. an excessive dose. [EU] Pediatrics: A medical specialty concerned with maintaining health and providing medical care to children from birth to adolescence. [NIH] Potassium: An element that is in the alkali group of metals. It has an atomic symbol K, atomic number 19, and atomic weight 39.10. It is the chief cation in the intracellular fluid of muscle and other cells. Potassium ion is a strong electrolyte and it plays a significant role in the regulation of fluid volume and maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance. [NIH] Riboflavin: Nutritional factor found in milk, eggs, malted barley, liver, kidney, heart, and leafy vegetables. The richest natural source is yeast. It occurs in the free form only in the retina of the eye, in whey, and in urine; its
174 Toxoplasmosis
principal forms in tissues and cells are as FMN and FAD. [NIH] Selenium: An element with the atomic symbol Se, atomic number 34, and atomic weight 78.96. It is an essential micronutrient for mammals and other animals but is toxic in large amounts. Selenium protects intracellular structures against oxidative damage. It is an essential component of glutathione peroxidase. [NIH] Thyrotropin: A peptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary. It promotes the growth of the thyroid gland and stimulates the synthesis of thyroid hormones and the release of thyroxine by the thyroid gland. [NIH] Thyroxine: An amino acid of the thyroid gland which exerts a stimulating effect on thyroid metabolism. [NIH]
Finding Medical Libraries 175
APPENDIX D. FINDING MEDICAL LIBRARIES Overview At a medical library you can find medical texts and reference books, consumer health publications, specialty newspapers and magazines, as well as medical journals. In this Appendix, we show you how to quickly find a medical library in your area.
Preparation Before going to the library, highlight the references mentioned in this sourcebook that you find interesting. Focus on those items that are not available via the Internet, and ask the reference librarian for help with your search. He or she may know of additional resources that could be helpful to you. Most importantly, your local public library and medical libraries have Interlibrary Loan programs with the National Library of Medicine (NLM), one of the largest medical collections in the world. According to the NLM, most of the literature in the general and historical collections of the National Library of Medicine is available on interlibrary loan to any library. NLM’s interlibrary loan services are only available to libraries. If you would like to access NLM medical literature, then visit a library in your area that can request the publications for you.53
53
Adapted from the NLM: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/psd/cas/interlibrary.html.
176 Toxoplasmosis
Finding a Local Medical Library The quickest method to locate medical libraries is to use the Internet-based directory published by the National Network of Libraries of Medicine (NN/LM). This network includes 4626 members and affiliates that provide many services to librarians, health professionals, and the public. To find a library in your area, simply visit http://nnlm.gov/members/adv.html or call 1-800-338-7657.
Medical Libraries Open to the Public In addition to the NN/LM, the National Library of Medicine (NLM) lists a number of libraries that are generally open to the public and have reference facilities. The following is the NLM’s list plus hyperlinks to each library Web site. These Web pages can provide information on hours of operation and other restrictions. The list below is a small sample of libraries recommended by the National Library of Medicine (sorted alphabetically by name of the U.S. state or Canadian province where the library is located):54 ·
Alabama: Health InfoNet of Jefferson County (Jefferson County Library Cooperative, Lister Hill Library of the Health Sciences), http://www.uab.edu/infonet/
·
Alabama: Richard M. Scrushy Library (American Sports Medicine Institute), http://www.asmi.org/LIBRARY.HTM
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Arizona: Samaritan Regional Medical Center: The Learning Center (Samaritan Health System, Phoenix, Arizona), http://www.samaritan.edu/library/bannerlibs.htm
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California: Kris Kelly Health Information Center (St. Joseph Health System), http://www.humboldt1.com/~kkhic/index.html
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California: Community Health Library of Los Gatos (Community Health Library of Los Gatos), http://www.healthlib.org/orgresources.html
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California: Consumer Health Program and Services (CHIPS) (County of Los Angeles Public Library, Los Angeles County Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Library) - Carson, CA, http://www.colapublib.org/services/chips.html
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California: Gateway Health Library (Sutter Gould Medical Foundation)
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California: Health Library (Stanford University Medical Center), http://www-med.stanford.edu/healthlibrary/
54
Abstracted from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/libraries.html.
Finding Medical Libraries 177
·
California: Patient Education Resource Center - Health Information and Resources (University of California, San Francisco), http://sfghdean.ucsf.edu/barnett/PERC/default.asp
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California: Redwood Health Library (Petaluma Health Care District), http://www.phcd.org/rdwdlib.html
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California: San José PlaneTree Health Library, http://planetreesanjose.org/
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California: Sutter Resource Library (Sutter Hospitals Foundation), http://go.sutterhealth.org/comm/resc-library/sac-resources.html
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California: University of California, Davis. Health Sciences Libraries
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California: ValleyCare Health Library & Ryan Comer Cancer Resource Center (ValleyCare Health System), http://www.valleycare.com/library.html
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California: Washington Community Health Resource Library (Washington Community Health Resource Library), http://www.healthlibrary.org/
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Colorado: William V. Gervasini Memorial Library (Exempla Healthcare), http://www.exempla.org/conslib.htm
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Connecticut: Hartford Hospital Health Science Libraries (Hartford Hospital), http://www.harthosp.org/library/
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Connecticut: Healthnet: Connecticut Consumer Health Information Center (University of Connecticut Health Center, Lyman Maynard Stowe Library), http://library.uchc.edu/departm/hnet/
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Connecticut: Waterbury Hospital Health Center Library (Waterbury Hospital), http://www.waterburyhospital.com/library/consumer.shtml
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Delaware: Consumer Health Library (Christiana Care Health System, Eugene du Pont Preventive Medicine & Rehabilitation Institute), http://www.christianacare.org/health_guide/health_guide_pmri_health _info.cfm
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Delaware: Lewis B. Flinn Library (Delaware Academy of Medicine), http://www.delamed.org/chls.html
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Georgia: Family Resource Library (Medical College of Georgia), http://cmc.mcg.edu/kids_families/fam_resources/fam_res_lib/frl.htm
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Georgia: Health Resource Center (Medical Center of Central Georgia), http://www.mccg.org/hrc/hrchome.asp
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Hawaii: Hawaii Medical Library: Consumer Health Information Service (Hawaii Medical Library), http://hml.org/CHIS/
178 Toxoplasmosis
·
Idaho: DeArmond Consumer Health Library (Kootenai Medical Center), http://www.nicon.org/DeArmond/index.htm
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Illinois: Health Learning Center of Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Health Learning Center), http://www.nmh.org/health_info/hlc.html
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Illinois: Medical Library (OSF Saint Francis Medical Center), http://www.osfsaintfrancis.org/general/library/
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Kentucky: Medical Library - Services for Patients, Families, Students & the Public (Central Baptist Hospital), http://www.centralbap.com/education/community/library.htm
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Kentucky: University of Kentucky - Health Information Library (University of Kentucky, Chandler Medical Center, Health Information Library), http://www.mc.uky.edu/PatientEd/
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Louisiana: Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation Library (Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation), http://www.ochsner.org/library/
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Louisiana: Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Medical Library-Shreveport, http://lib-sh.lsuhsc.edu/
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Maine: Franklin Memorial Hospital Medical Library (Franklin Memorial Hospital), http://www.fchn.org/fmh/lib.htm
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Maine: Gerrish-True Health Sciences Library (Central Maine Medical Center), http://www.cmmc.org/library/library.html
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Maine: Hadley Parrot Health Science Library (Eastern Maine Healthcare), http://www.emh.org/hll/hpl/guide.htm
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Maine: Maine Medical Center Library (Maine Medical Center), http://www.mmc.org/library/
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Maine: Parkview Hospital, http://www.parkviewhospital.org/communit.htm#Library
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Maine: Southern Maine Medical Center Health Sciences Library (Southern Maine Medical Center), http://www.smmc.org/services/service.php3?choice=10
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Maine: Stephens Memorial Hospital Health Information Library (Western Maine Health), http://www.wmhcc.com/hil_frame.html
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Manitoba, Canada: Consumer & Patient Health Information Service (University of Manitoba Libraries), http://www.umanitoba.ca/libraries/units/health/reference/chis.html
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Manitoba, Canada: J.W. Crane Memorial Library (Deer Lodge Centre), http://www.deerlodge.mb.ca/library/libraryservices.shtml
Finding Medical Libraries 179
·
Maryland: Health Information Center at the Wheaton Regional Library (Montgomery County, Md., Dept. of Public Libraries, Wheaton Regional Library), http://www.mont.lib.md.us/healthinfo/hic.asp
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Massachusetts: Baystate Medical Center Library (Baystate Health System), http://www.baystatehealth.com/1024/
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Massachusetts: Boston University Medical Center Alumni Medical Library (Boston University Medical Center), http://medlibwww.bu.edu/library/lib.html
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Massachusetts: Lowell General Hospital Health Sciences Library (Lowell General Hospital), http://www.lowellgeneral.org/library/HomePageLinks/WWW.htm
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Massachusetts: Paul E. Woodard Health Sciences Library (New England Baptist Hospital), http://www.nebh.org/health_lib.asp
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Massachusetts: St. Luke’s Hospital Health Sciences Library (St. Luke’s Hospital), http://www.southcoast.org/library/
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Massachusetts: Treadwell Library Consumer Health Reference Center (Massachusetts General Hospital), http://www.mgh.harvard.edu/library/chrcindex.html
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Massachusetts: UMass HealthNet (University of Massachusetts Medical School), http://healthnet.umassmed.edu/
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Michigan: Botsford General Hospital Library - Consumer Health (Botsford General Hospital, Library & Internet Services), http://www.botsfordlibrary.org/consumer.htm
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Michigan: Helen DeRoy Medical Library (Providence Hospital and Medical Centers), http://www.providence-hospital.org/library/
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Michigan: Marquette General Hospital - Consumer Health Library (Marquette General Hospital, Health Information Center), http://www.mgh.org/center.html
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Michigan: Patient Education Resouce Center - University of Michigan Cancer Center (University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center), http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/learn/leares.htm
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Michigan: Sladen Library & Center for Health Information Resources Consumer Health Information, http://www.sladen.hfhs.org/library/consumer/index.html
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Montana: Center for Health Information (St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center), http://www.saintpatrick.org/chi/librarydetail.php3?ID=41
180 Toxoplasmosis
·
National: Consumer Health Library Directory (Medical Library Association, Consumer and Patient Health Information Section), http://caphis.mlanet.org/directory/index.html
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National: National Network of Libraries of Medicine (National Library of Medicine) - provides library services for health professionals in the United States who do not have access to a medical library, http://nnlm.gov/
·
National: NN/LM List of Libraries Serving the Public (National Network of Libraries of Medicine), http://nnlm.gov/members/
·
Nevada: Health Science Library, West Charleston Library (Las Vegas Clark County Library District), http://www.lvccld.org/special_collections/medical/index.htm
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New Hampshire: Dartmouth Biomedical Libraries (Dartmouth College Library), http://www.dartmouth.edu/~biomed/resources.htmld/conshealth.htmld/
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New Jersey: Consumer Health Library (Rahway Hospital), http://www.rahwayhospital.com/library.htm
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New Jersey: Dr. Walter Phillips Health Sciences Library (Englewood Hospital and Medical Center), http://www.englewoodhospital.com/links/index.htm
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New Jersey: Meland Foundation (Englewood Hospital and Medical Center), http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/9360/
·
New York: Choices in Health Information (New York Public Library) NLM Consumer Pilot Project participant, http://www.nypl.org/branch/health/links.html
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New York: Health Information Center (Upstate Medical University, State University of New York), http://www.upstate.edu/library/hic/
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New York: Health Sciences Library (Long Island Jewish Medical Center), http://www.lij.edu/library/library.html
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New York: ViaHealth Medical Library (Rochester General Hospital), http://www.nyam.org/library/
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Ohio: Consumer Health Library (Akron General Medical Center, Medical & Consumer Health Library), http://www.akrongeneral.org/hwlibrary.htm
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Oklahoma: Saint Francis Health System Patient/Family Resource Center (Saint Francis Health System), http://www.sfhtulsa.com/patientfamilycenter/default.asp
Finding Medical Libraries 181
·
Oregon: Planetree Health Resource Center (Mid-Columbia Medical Center), http://www.mcmc.net/phrc/
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Pennsylvania: Community Health Information Library (Milton S. Hershey Medical Center), http://www.hmc.psu.edu/commhealth/
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Pennsylvania: Community Health Resource Library (Geisinger Medical Center), http://www.geisinger.edu/education/commlib.shtml
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Pennsylvania: HealthInfo Library (Moses Taylor Hospital), http://www.mth.org/healthwellness.html
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Pennsylvania: Hopwood Library (University of Pittsburgh, Health Sciences Library System), http://www.hsls.pitt.edu/chi/hhrcinfo.html
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Pennsylvania: Koop Community Health Information Center (College of Physicians of Philadelphia), http://www.collphyphil.org/kooppg1.shtml
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Pennsylvania: Learning Resources Center - Medical Library (Susquehanna Health System), http://www.shscares.org/services/lrc/index.asp
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Pennsylvania: Medical Library (UPMC Health System), http://www.upmc.edu/passavant/library.htm
·
Quebec, Canada: Medical Library (Montreal General Hospital), http://ww2.mcgill.ca/mghlib/
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South Dakota: Rapid City Regional Hospital - Health Information Center (Rapid City Regional Hospital, Health Information Center), http://www.rcrh.org/education/LibraryResourcesConsumers.htm
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Texas: Houston HealthWays (Houston Academy of Medicine-Texas Medical Center Library), http://hhw.library.tmc.edu/
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Texas: Matustik Family Resource Center (Cook Children’s Health Care System), http://www.cookchildrens.com/Matustik_Library.html
·
Washington: Community Health Library (Kittitas Valley Community Hospital), http://www.kvch.com/
·
Washington: Southwest Washington Medical Center Library (Southwest Washington Medical Center), http://www.swmedctr.com/Home/
Your Rights and Insurance 183
APPENDIX E. YOUR RIGHTS AND INSURANCE Overview Any patient with toxoplasmosis faces a series of issues related more to the healthcare industry than to the medical condition itself. This appendix covers two important topics in this regard: your rights and responsibilities as a patient, and how to get the most out of your medical insurance plan.
Your Rights as a Patient The President’s Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Healthcare Industry has created the following summary of your rights as a patient.55 Information Disclosure Consumers have the right to receive accurate, easily understood information. Some consumers require assistance in making informed decisions about health plans, health professionals, and healthcare facilities. Such information includes: ·
Health plans. Covered benefits, cost-sharing, and procedures for resolving complaints, licensure, certification, and accreditation status, comparable measures of quality and consumer satisfaction, provider network composition, the procedures that govern access to specialists and emergency services, and care management information.
55Adapted
from Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities: http://www.hcqualitycommission.gov/press/cbor.html#head1.
184 Toxoplasmosis
·
Health professionals. Education, board certification, and recertification, years of practice, experience performing certain procedures, and comparable measures of quality and consumer satisfaction.
·
Healthcare facilities. Experience in performing certain procedures and services, accreditation status, comparable measures of quality, worker, and consumer satisfaction, and procedures for resolving complaints.
·
Consumer assistance programs. Programs must be carefully structured to promote consumer confidence and to work cooperatively with health plans, providers, payers, and regulators. Desirable characteristics of such programs are sponsorship that ensures accountability to the interests of consumers and stable, adequate funding.
Choice of Providers and Plans Consumers have the right to a choice of healthcare providers that is sufficient to ensure access to appropriate high-quality healthcare. To ensure such choice, the Commission recommends the following: ·
Provider network adequacy. All health plan networks should provide access to sufficient numbers and types of providers to assure that all covered services will be accessible without unreasonable delay -including access to emergency services 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. If a health plan has an insufficient number or type of providers to provide a covered benefit with the appropriate degree of specialization, the plan should ensure that the consumer obtains the benefit outside the network at no greater cost than if the benefit were obtained from participating providers.
·
Women’s health services. Women should be able to choose a qualified provider offered by a plan -- such as gynecologists, certified nurse midwives, and other qualified healthcare providers -- for the provision of covered care necessary to provide routine and preventative women’s healthcare services.
·
Access to specialists. Consumers with complex or serious medical conditions who require frequent specialty care should have direct access to a qualified specialist of their choice within a plan’s network of providers. Authorizations, when required, should be for an adequate number of direct access visits under an approved treatment plan.
·
Transitional care. Consumers who are undergoing a course of treatment for a chronic or disabling condition (or who are in the second or third trimester of a pregnancy) at the time they involuntarily change health
Your Rights and Insurance 185
plans or at a time when a provider is terminated by a plan for other than cause should be able to continue seeing their current specialty providers for up to 90 days (or through completion of postpartum care) to allow for transition of care. ·
Choice of health plans. Public and private group purchasers should, wherever feasible, offer consumers a choice of high-quality health insurance plans.
Access to Emergency Services Consumers have the right to access emergency healthcare services when and where the need arises. Health plans should provide payment when a consumer presents to an emergency department with acute symptoms of sufficient severity--including severe pain--such that a “prudent layperson” could reasonably expect the absence of medical attention to result in placing that consumer’s health in serious jeopardy, serious impairment to bodily functions, or serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part.
Participation in Treatment Decisions Consumers have the right and responsibility to fully participate in all decisions related to their healthcare. Consumers who are unable to fully participate in treatment decisions have the right to be represented by parents, guardians, family members, or other conservators. Physicians and other health professionals should: ·
Provide patients with sufficient information and opportunity to decide among treatment options consistent with the informed consent process.
·
Discuss all treatment options with a patient in a culturally competent manner, including the option of no treatment at all.
·
Ensure that persons with disabilities have effective communications with members of the health system in making such decisions.
·
Discuss all current treatments a consumer may be undergoing.
·
Discuss all risks, nontreatment.
·
Give patients the opportunity to refuse treatment and to express preferences about future treatment decisions.
benefits,
and
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·
Discuss the use of advance directives -- both living wills and durable powers of attorney for healthcare -- with patients and their designated family members.
·
Abide by the decisions made by their patients and/or their designated representatives consistent with the informed consent process.
Health plans, health providers, and healthcare facilities should: ·
Disclose to consumers factors -- such as methods of compensation, ownership of or interest in healthcare facilities, or matters of conscience -that could influence advice or treatment decisions.
·
Assure that provider contracts do not contain any so-called “gag clauses” or other contractual mechanisms that restrict healthcare providers’ ability to communicate with and advise patients about medically necessary treatment options.
·
Be prohibited from penalizing or seeking retribution against healthcare professionals or other health workers for advocating on behalf of their patients.
Respect and Nondiscrimination Consumers have the right to considerate, respectful care from all members of the healthcare industry at all times and under all circumstances. An environment of mutual respect is essential to maintain a quality healthcare system. To assure that right, the Commission recommends the following: ·
Consumers must not be discriminated against in the delivery of healthcare services consistent with the benefits covered in their policy, or as required by law, based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or source of payment.
·
Consumers eligible for coverage under the terms and conditions of a health plan or program, or as required by law, must not be discriminated against in marketing and enrollment practices based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or source of payment. Confidentiality of Health Information
Consumers have the right to communicate with healthcare providers in confidence and to have the confidentiality of their individually identifiable
Your Rights and Insurance 187
healthcare information protected. Consumers also have the right to review and copy their own medical records and request amendments to their records. Complaints and Appeals Consumers have the right to a fair and efficient process for resolving differences with their health plans, healthcare providers, and the institutions that serve them, including a rigorous system of internal review and an independent system of external review. A free copy of the Patient’s Bill of Rights is available from the American Hospital Association.56
Patient Responsibilities Treatment is a two-way street between you and your healthcare providers. To underscore the importance of finance in modern healthcare as well as your responsibility for the financial aspects of your care, the President’s Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Healthcare Industry has proposed that patients understand the following “Consumer Responsibilities.”57 In a healthcare system that protects consumers’ rights, it is reasonable to expect and encourage consumers to assume certain responsibilities. Greater individual involvement by the consumer in his or her care increases the likelihood of achieving the best outcome and helps support a quality-oriented, cost-conscious environment. Such responsibilities include: ·
Take responsibility for maximizing healthy habits such as exercising, not smoking, and eating a healthy diet.
·
Work collaboratively with healthcare providers in developing and carrying out agreed-upon treatment plans.
·
Disclose relevant information and clearly communicate wants and needs.
·
Use your health insurance plan’s internal complaint and appeal processes to address your concerns.
·
Avoid knowingly spreading disease.
To order your free copy of the Patient’s Bill of Rights, telephone 312-422-3000 or visit the American Hospital Association’s Web site: http://www.aha.org. Click on “Resource Center,” go to “Search” at bottom of page, and then type in “Patient’s Bill of Rights.” The Patient’s Bill of Rights is also available from Fax on Demand, at 312-422-2020, document number 471124. 57 Adapted from http://www.hcqualitycommission.gov/press/cbor.html#head1. 56
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·
Recognize the reality of risks, the limits of the medical science, and the human fallibility of the healthcare professional.
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Be aware of a healthcare provider’s obligation to be reasonably efficient and equitable in providing care to other patients and the community.
·
Become knowledgeable about your health plan’s coverage and options (when available) including all covered benefits, limitations, and exclusions, rules regarding use of network providers, coverage and referral rules, appropriate processes to secure additional information, and the process to appeal coverage decisions.
·
Show respect for other patients and health workers.
·
Make a good-faith effort to meet financial obligations.
·
Abide by administrative and operational procedures of health plans, healthcare providers, and Government health benefit programs.
Choosing an Insurance Plan There are a number of official government agencies that help consumers understand their healthcare insurance choices.58 The U.S. Department of Labor, in particular, recommends ten ways to make your health benefits choices work best for you.59 1. Your options are important. There are many different types of health benefit plans. Find out which one your employer offers, then check out the plan, or plans, offered. Your employer’s human resource office, the health plan administrator, or your union can provide information to help you match your needs and preferences with the available plans. The more information you have, the better your healthcare decisions will be. 2. Reviewing the benefits available. Do the plans offered cover preventive care, well-baby care, vision or dental care? Are there deductibles? Answers to these questions can help determine the out-of-pocket expenses you may face. Matching your needs and those of your family members will result in the best possible benefits. Cheapest may not always be best. Your goal is high quality health benefits.
More information about quality across programs is provided at the following AHRQ Web site: http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/qntascii/qnthplan.htm. 59 Adapted from the Department of Labor: http://www.dol.gov/dol/pwba/public/pubs/health/top10-text.html. 58
Your Rights and Insurance 189
3. Look for quality. The quality of healthcare services varies, but quality can be measured. You should consider the quality of healthcare in deciding among the healthcare plans or options available to you. Not all health plans, doctors, hospitals and other providers give the highest quality care. Fortunately, there is quality information you can use right now to help you compare your healthcare choices. Find out how you can measure quality. Consult the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services publication “Your Guide to Choosing Quality Health Care” on the Internet at www.ahcpr.gov/consumer. 4. Your plan’s summary plan description (SPD) provides a wealth of information. Your health plan administrator can provide you with a copy of your plan’s SPD. It outlines your benefits and your legal rights under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the federal law that protects your health benefits. It should contain information about the coverage of dependents, what services will require a co-pay, and the circumstances under which your employer can change or terminate a health benefits plan. Save the SPD and all other health plan brochures and documents, along with memos or correspondence from your employer relating to health benefits. 5. Assess your benefit coverage as your family status changes. Marriage, divorce, childbirth or adoption, and the death of a spouse are all life events that may signal a need to change your health benefits. You, your spouse and dependent children may be eligible for a special enrollment period under provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Even without life-changing events, the information provided by your employer should tell you how you can change benefits or switch plans, if more than one plan is offered. If your spouse’s employer also offers a health benefits package, consider coordinating both plans for maximum coverage. 6. Changing jobs and other life events can affect your health benefits. Under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), you, your covered spouse, and your dependent children may be eligible to purchase extended health coverage under your employer’s plan if you lose your job, change employers, get divorced, or upon occurrence of certain other events. Coverage can range from 18 to 36 months depending on your situation. COBRA applies to most employers with 20 or more workers and requires your plan to notify you of your rights. Most plans require eligible individuals to make their COBRA election within 60 days of the plan’s notice. Be sure to follow up with your plan sponsor if you don’t receive notice, and make sure you respond within the allotted time.
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7. HIPAA can also help if you are changing jobs, particularly if you have a medical condition. HIPAA generally limits pre-existing condition exclusions to a maximum of 12 months (18 months for late enrollees). HIPAA also requires this maximum period to be reduced by the length of time you had prior “creditable coverage.” You should receive a certificate documenting your prior creditable coverage from your old plan when coverage ends. 8. Plan for retirement. Before you retire, find out what health benefits, if any, extend to you and your spouse during your retirement years. Consult with your employer’s human resources office, your union, the plan administrator, and check your SPD. Make sure there is no conflicting information among these sources about the benefits you will receive or the circumstances under which they can change or be eliminated. With this information in hand, you can make other important choices, like finding out if you are eligible for Medicare and Medigap insurance coverage. 9. Know how to file an appeal if your health benefits claim is denied. Understand how your plan handles grievances and where to make appeals of the plan’s decisions. Keep records and copies of correspondence. Check your health benefits package and your SPD to determine who is responsible for handling problems with benefit claims. Contact PWBA for customer service assistance if you are unable to obtain a response to your complaint. 10. You can take steps to improve the quality of the healthcare and the health benefits you receive. Look for and use things like Quality Reports and Accreditation Reports whenever you can. Quality reports may contain consumer ratings -- how satisfied consumers are with the doctors in their plan, for instance-- and clinical performance measures -- how well a healthcare organization prevents and treats illness. Accreditation reports provide information on how accredited organizations meet national standards, and often include clinical performance measures. Look for these quality measures whenever possible. Consult “Your Guide to Choosing Quality Health Care” on the Internet at www.ahcpr.gov/consumer.
Medicare and Medicaid Illness strikes both rich and poor families. For low-income families, Medicaid is available to defer the costs of treatment. The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) administers Medicare, the nation’s largest health insurance program, which covers 39 million Americans. In the following pages, you will learn the basics about Medicare insurance as well as useful
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contact information on how to find more in-depth information about Medicaid.60
Who is Eligible for Medicare? Generally, you are eligible for Medicare if you or your spouse worked for at least 10 years in Medicare-covered employment and you are 65 years old and a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. You might also qualify for coverage if you are under age 65 but have a disability or EndStage Renal disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant). Here are some simple guidelines: You can get Part A at age 65 without having to pay premiums if: ·
You are already receiving retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.
·
You are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad benefits but have not yet filed for them.
·
You or your spouse had Medicare-covered government employment.
If you are under 65, you can get Part A without having to pay premiums if: ·
You have received Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefit for 24 months.
·
You are a kidney dialysis or kidney transplant patient.
Medicare has two parts: ·
Part A (Hospital Insurance). Most people do not have to pay for Part A.
·
Part B (Medical Insurance). Most people pay monthly for Part B. Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Helps Pay For: Inpatient hospital care, care in critical access hospitals (small facilities that give limited outpatient and inpatient services to people in rural areas) and skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home healthcare.
This section has been adapted from the Official U.S. Site for Medicare Information: http://www.medicare.gov/Basics/Overview.asp.
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Cost: Most people get Part A automatically when they turn age 65. You do not have to pay a monthly payment called a premium for Part A because you or a spouse paid Medicare taxes while you were working. If you (or your spouse) did not pay Medicare taxes while you were working and you are age 65 or older, you still may be able to buy Part A. If you are not sure you have Part A, look on your red, white, and blue Medicare card. It will show “Hospital Part A” on the lower left corner of the card. You can also call the Social Security Administration toll free at 1-800-772-1213 or call your local Social Security office for more information about buying Part A. If you get benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board, call your local RRB office or 1-800-808-0772. For more information, call your Fiscal Intermediary about Part A bills and services. The phone number for the Fiscal Intermediary office in your area can be obtained from the following Web site: http://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/home.asp. Part B (Medical Insurance) Helps Pay For: Doctors, services, outpatient hospital care, and some other medical services that Part A does not cover, such as the services of physical and occupational therapists, and some home healthcare. Part B helps pay for covered services and supplies when they are medically necessary. Cost: As of 2001, you pay the Medicare Part B premium of $50.00 per month. In some cases this amount may be higher if you did not choose Part B when you first became eligible at age 65. The cost of Part B may go up 10% for each 12-month period that you were eligible for Part B but declined coverage, except in special cases. You will have to pay the extra 10% cost for the rest of your life. Enrolling in Part B is your choice. You can sign up for Part B anytime during a 7-month period that begins 3 months before you turn 65. Visit your local Social Security office, or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-7721213 to sign up. If you choose to enroll in Part B, the premium is usually taken out of your monthly Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or Civil Service Retirement payment. If you do not receive any of the above payments, Medicare sends you a bill for your part B premium every 3 months. You should receive your Medicare premium bill in the mail by the 10th of the month. If you do not, call the Social Security Administration at 1800-772-1213, or your local Social Security office. If you get benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board, call your local RRB office or 1-800-808-0772. For more information, call your Medicare carrier about bills and services. The
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phone number for the Medicare carrier in your area can be found at the following Web site: http://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/home.asp. You may have choices in how you get your healthcare including the Original Medicare Plan, Medicare Managed Care Plans (like HMOs), and Medicare Private Fee-for-Service Plans.
Medicaid Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps pay medical costs for some people with low incomes and limited resources. Medicaid programs vary from state to state. People on Medicaid may also get coverage for nursing home care and outpatient prescription drugs which are not covered by Medicare. You can find more information about Medicaid on the HCFA.gov Web site at http://www.hcfa.gov/medicaid/medicaid.htm. States also have programs that pay some or all of Medicare’s premiums and may also pay Medicare deductibles and coinsurance for certain people who have Medicare and a low income. To qualify, you must have: ·
Part A (Hospital Insurance),
·
Assets, such as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds that are not more than $4,000 for a single person, or $6,000 for a couple, and
·
A monthly income that is below certain limits.
For more information on these programs, look at the Medicare Savings Programs brochure, http://www.medicare.gov/Library/PDFNavigation/PDFInterim.asp?Langua ge=English&Type=Pub&PubID=10126. There are also Prescription Drug Assistance Programs available. Find information on these programs which offer discounts or free medications to individuals in need at http://www.medicare.gov/Prescription/Home.asp.
NORD’s Medication Assistance Programs Finally, the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. (NORD) administers medication programs sponsored by humanitarian-minded pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to help uninsured or underinsured individuals secure life-saving or life-sustaining drugs.61 NORD Adapted from NORD: http://www.rarediseases.org/cgibin/nord/progserv#patient?id=rPIzL9oD&mv_pc=30.
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programs ensure that certain vital drugs are available “to those individuals whose income is too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to pay for their prescribed medications.” The program has standards for fairness, equity, and unbiased eligibility. It currently covers some 14 programs for nine pharmaceutical companies. NORD also offers early access programs for investigational new drugs (IND) under the approved “Treatment INDs” programs of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In these programs, a limited number of individuals can receive investigational drugs that have yet to be approved by the FDA. These programs are generally designed for rare diseases or disorders. For more information, visit www.rarediseases.org.
Additional Resources In addition to the references already listed in this chapter, you may need more information on health insurance, hospitals, or the healthcare system in general. The NIH has set up an excellent guidance Web site that addresses these and other issues. Topics include:62 ·
Health Insurance: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthinsurance.html
·
Health Statistics: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthstatistics.html
·
HMO and Managed Care: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/managedcare.html
·
Hospice Care: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/hospicecare.html
·
Medicaid: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/medicaid.html
·
Medicare: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/medicare.html
·
Nursing Homes and Long-term Care: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/nursinghomes.html
·
Patient’s Rights, Confidentiality, Informed Consent, Ombudsman Programs, Privacy and Patient Issues: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/patientissues.html
·
Veteran’s Health, Persian Gulf War, Gulf War Syndrome, Agent Orange: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/veteranshealth.html
You can access this information at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthsystem.html.
62
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Vocabulary Builder Abdominal Pain: Sensation of discomfort, distress, or agony in the abdominal region. [NIH] Amniotic Fluid: Amniotic cavity fluid which is produced by the amnion and fetal lungs and kidneys. [NIH] Cardiovascular: Pertaining to the heart and blood vessels. [EU] Hyperplasia: The abnormal multiplication or increase in the number of normal cells in normal arrangement in a tissue. [EU] Malaise: A vague feeling of bodily discomfort. [EU] Myalgia: Pain in a muscle or muscles. [EU] Photophobia: Abnormal visual intolerance of light. [EU] Spasticity: A state of hypertonicity, or increase over the normal tone of a muscle, with heightened deep tendon reflexes. [EU]
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ONLINE GLOSSARIES The Internet provides access to a number of free-to-use medical dictionaries and glossaries. The National Library of Medicine has compiled the following list of online dictionaries: ·
ADAM Medical Encyclopedia (A.D.A.M., Inc.), comprehensive medical reference: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/encyclopedia.html
·
MedicineNet.com Medical Dictionary (MedicineNet, Inc.): http://www.medterms.com/Script/Main/hp.asp
·
Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary (Inteli-Health, Inc.): http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/
·
Multilingual Glossary of Technical and Popular Medical Terms in Eight European Languages (European Commission) - Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish: http://allserv.rug.ac.be/~rvdstich/eugloss/welcome.html
·
On-line Medical Dictionary (CancerWEB): http://www.graylab.ac.uk/omd/
·
Technology Glossary (National Library of Medicine) - Health Care Technology: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/nichsr/ta101/ta10108.htm
·
Terms and Definitions (Office of Rare Diseases): http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/ord/glossary_a-e.html
Beyond these, MEDLINEplus contains a very user-friendly encyclopedia covering every aspect of medicine (licensed from A.D.A.M., Inc.). The ADAM Medical Encyclopedia Web site address is http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/encyclopedia.html. ADAM is also available on commercial Web sites such as Web MD (http://my.webmd.com/adam/asset/adam_disease_articles/a_to_z/a) and drkoop.com (http://www.drkoop.com/). Topics of interest can be researched by using keywords before continuing elsewhere, as these basic definitions and concepts will be useful in more advanced areas of research. You may choose to print various pages specifically relating to toxoplasmosis and keep them on file. The NIH, in particular, suggests that patients with toxoplasmosis visit the following Web sites in the ADAM Medical Encyclopedia:
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·
Basic Guidelines for Toxoplasmosis AIDS Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000594.htm Chorioretinitis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000665.htm Chorioretinitis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001005.htm Erythroblastosis fetalis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001298.htm Herpes simplex Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001324.htm Histoplasmosis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001082.htm Listeriosis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001380.htm Lymphadenopathy Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001377.htm Lymphoma Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001086.htm Myocarditis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000149.htm
Online Glossaries 199
PML Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000674.htm Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000671.htm Rubella Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001574.htm Sarcoidosis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000076.htm Syphilis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001327.htm Toxoplasma test Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003514.htm Toxoplasmosis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000637.htm ·
Signs & Symptoms for Toxoplasmosis Abdominal pain Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003120.htm Anemia Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000560.htm Blindness Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003040.htm
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Blurred vision Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003029.htm Confusion Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003205.htm Cysts Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003240.htm Deafness Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003044.htm Enlarged liver Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003275.htm Enlarged lymph nodes Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003097.htm Fainting Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003092.htm Fever Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003090.htm Headache Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003024.htm Hepatosplenomegaly Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003275.htm
Online Glossaries 201
Jaundice Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003243.htm Malaise Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003089.htm Microcephaly Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003272.htm Muscle pain Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003178.htm Myalgia Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003178.htm Photophobia Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003041.htm Rash Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003220.htm Seizures Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003200.htm Sore throat Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003053.htm Spasticity Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003297.htm ·
Diagnostics and Tests for Toxoplasmosis
202 Toxoplasmosis
Biopsy Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003416.htm Blood pressure Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003398.htm CBC Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003642.htm Chest X-ray Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003804.htm Cranial CT scan Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003786.htm CT Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003330.htm Cysts Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003240.htm Electrocardiogram Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003868.htm ELISA Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003332.htm Hyperplasia Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003441.htm
Online Glossaries 203
Lymph node biopsy Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003933.htm MRI Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003335.htm MRI of head Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003791.htm Open lung biopsy Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003861.htm Serologic titers for toxoplasmosis Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003514.htm Serology Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003511.htm Spinal tap Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003428.htm Toxoplasma serology Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003514.htm Ultrasound Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003336.htm Venipuncture Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003423.htm
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X-ray Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003337.htm ·
Surgery and Procedures for Toxoplasmosis Abortion Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002912.htm
·
Background Topics for Toxoplasmosis Acute Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002215.htm Adolescent test or procedure preparation Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002054.htm Amniotic fluid Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002220.htm Antibodies Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002223.htm Antibody Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002223.htm Antigen Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002224.htm Asymptomatic Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002217.htm
Online Glossaries 205
Benign Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002236.htm Bleeding Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000045.htm Cardiovascular Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002310.htm Central nervous system Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002311.htm Chronic Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002312.htm Incidence Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002387.htm Infant test or procedure preparation Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002055.htm Preschooler test or procedure preparation Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002057.htm Retina Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002291.htm Schoolage test or procedure preparation Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002058.htm
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Titer Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002328.htm Toddler test or procedure preparation Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002056.htm
Online Dictionary Directories The following are additional online directories compiled by the National Library of Medicine, including a number of specialized medical dictionaries and glossaries: ·
Medical Dictionaries: Medical & Biological (World Health Organization): http://www.who.int/hlt/virtuallibrary/English/diction.htm#Medical
·
MEL-Michigan Electronic Library List of Online Health and Medical Dictionaries (Michigan Electronic Library): http://mel.lib.mi.us/health/health-dictionaries.html
·
Patient Education: Glossaries (DMOZ Open Directory Project): http://dmoz.org/Health/Education/Patient_Education/Glossaries/
·
Web of Online Dictionaries (Bucknell University): http://www.yourdictionary.com/diction5.html#medicine
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TOXOPLASMOSIS GLOSSARY The following is a complete glossary of terms used in this sourcebook. The definitions are derived from official public sources including the National Institutes of Health [NIH] and the European Union [EU]. After this glossary, we list a number of additional hardbound and electronic glossaries and dictionaries that you may wish to consult. Abdominal Pain: Sensation of discomfort, distress, or agony in the abdominal region. [NIH] Abortion: 1. the premature expulsion from the uterus of the products of conception - of the embryo, or of a nonviable fetus. The four classic symptoms, usually present in each type of abortion, are uterine contractions, uterine haemorrhage, softening and dilatation of the cervix, and presentation or expulsion of all or part of the products of conception. 2. premature stoppage of a natural or a pathological process. [EU] Abscess: A localized collection of pus caused by suppuration buried in tissues, organs, or confined spaces. [EU] Acyclovir: Functional analog of the nucleoside guanosine. It acts as an antimetabolite, especially in viruses. It is used as an antiviral agent, especially in herpes infections. [NIH] Adenosine: A nucleoside that is composed of adenine and d-ribose. Adenosine or adenosine derivatives play many important biological roles in addition to being components of DNA and RNA. Adenosine itself is a neurotransmitter. [NIH] Aetiology: Study of the causes of disease. [EU] Agar: A complex sulfated polymer of galactose units, extracted from Gelidium cartilagineum, Gracilaria confervoides, and related red algae. It is used as a gel in the preparation of solid culture media for microorganisms, as a bulk laxative, in making emulsions, and as a supporting medium for immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. [NIH] Alanine: A non-essential amino acid that occurs in high levels in its free state in plasma. It is produced from pyruvate by transamination. It is involved in sugar and acid metabolism, increases immunity, and provides energy for muscle tissue, brain, and the central nervous system. [NIH] Amniotic Fluid: Amniotic cavity fluid which is produced by the amnion and fetal lungs and kidneys. [NIH] Anatomical: Pertaining to anatomy, or to the structure of the organism. [EU] Anemia: A reduction in the number of circulating erythrocytes or in the
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quantity of hemoglobin. [NIH] Aneurysm: A sac formed by the dilatation of the wall of an artery, a vein, or the heart. The chief signs of arterial aneurysm are the formation of a pulsating tumour, and often a bruit (aneurysmal bruit) heard over the swelling. Sometimes there are symptoms from pressure on contiguous parts. [EU]
Anoxia: A total lack of oxygen; often used interchangeably with hypoxia to mean a reduced supply of oxygen to the tissues. [EU] Antibiotic: A chemical substance produced by a microorganism which has the capacity, in dilute solutions, to inhibit the growth of or to kill other microorganisms. Antibiotics that are sufficiently nontoxic to the host are used as chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of infectious diseases of man, animals and plants. [EU] Antibody: An immunoglobulin molecule that has a specific amino acid sequence by virtue of which it interacts only with the antigen that induced its synthesis in cells of the lymphoid series (especially plasma cells), or with antigen closely related to it. Antibodies are classified according to their ode of action as agglutinins, bacteriolysins, haemolysins, opsonins, precipitins, etc. [EU] Anticoagulants: Agents that prevent blood clotting. Naturally occurring agents in the blood are included only when they are used as drugs. [NIH] Antigen: Any substance which is capable, under appropriate conditions, of inducing a specific immune response and of reacting with the products of that response, that is, with specific antibody or specifically sensitized Tlymphocytes, or both. Antigens may be soluble substances, such as toxins and foreign proteins, or particulate, such as bacteria and tissue cells; however, only the portion of the protein or polysaccharide molecule known as the antigenic determinant (q.v.) combines with antibody or a specific receptor on a lymphocyte. Abbreviated Ag. [EU] Antimicrobial: Killing microorganisms, or suppressing their multiplication or growth. [EU] Antineoplastic: Inhibiting or preventing the development of neoplasms, checking the maturation and proliferation of malignant cells. [EU] Antiviral: Destroying viruses or suppressing their replication. [EU] Apathy: Lack of feeling or emotion; indifference. [EU] Aqueous: Watery; prepared with water. [EU] Arteriovenous: Both arterial and venous; pertaining to or affecting an artery and a vein. [EU] Aspergillosis: Infections with fungi of the genus aspergillus. [NIH] Aspergillus: A genus of mitosporic fungi containing about 100 species and
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eleven different teleomorphs in the family Trichocomaceae. [NIH] Assay: Determination of the amount of a particular constituent of a mixture, or of the biological or pharmacological potency of a drug. [EU] Asymptomatic: Showing or causing no symptoms. [EU] Atopic: Pertaining to an atopen or to atopy; allergic. [EU] Atypical: Irregular; not conformable to the type; in microbiology, applied specifically to strains of unusual type. [EU] Audiology: The study of hearing and hearing impairment. [NIH] Auditory: Pertaining to the sense of hearing. [EU] Autopsy: Postmortem examination of the body. [NIH] Barotrauma: Injury following pressure changes; includes injury to the eustachian tube, ear drum, lung and stomach. [NIH] Benign: Not malignant; not recurrent; favourable for recovery. [EU] Bilateral: Having two sides, or pertaining to both sides. [EU] Bile: An emulsifying agent produced in the liver and secreted into the duodenum. Its composition includes bile acids and salts, cholesterol, and electrolytes. It aids digestion of fats in the duodenum. [NIH] Biochemical: Relating to biochemistry; characterized by, produced by, or involving chemical reactions in living organisms. [EU] Biopsy: The removal and examination, usually microscopic, of tissue from the living body, performed to establish precise diagnosis. [EU] Biosynthesis: The building up of a chemical compound in the physiologic processes of a living organism. [EU] Blastomycosis: A fungal infection that may appear in two forms: 1) a primary lesion characterized by the formation of a small cutaneous nodule and small nodules along the lymphatics that may heal within several months; and 2) chronic granulomatous lesions characterized by thick crusts, warty growths, and unusual vascularity and infection in the middle or upper lobes of the lung. [NIH] Candidiasis: Infection with a fungus of the genus Candida. It is usually a superficial infection of the moist cutaneous areas of the body, and is generally caused by C. albicans; it most commonly involves the skin (dermatocandidiasis), oral mucous membranes (thrush, def. 1), respiratory tract (bronchocandidiasis), and vagina (vaginitis). Rarely there is a systemic infection or endocarditis. Called also moniliasis, candidosis, oidiomycosis, and formerly blastodendriosis. [EU] Capsules: Hard or soft soluble containers used for the oral administration of medicine. [NIH]
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Carbohydrate: An aldehyde or ketone derivative of a polyhydric alcohol, particularly of the pentahydric and hexahydric alcohols. They are so named because the hydrogen and oxygen are usually in the proportion to form water, (CH2O)n. The most important carbohydrates are the starches, sugars, celluloses, and gums. They are classified into mono-, di-, tri-, poly- and heterosaccharides. [EU] Carcinoma: A malignant new growth made up of epithelial cells tending to infiltrate the surrounding tissues and give rise to metastases. [EU] Cardiovascular: Pertaining to the heart and blood vessels. [EU] Causal: Pertaining to a cause; directed against a cause. [EU] Cerumen: The waxlike secretion found within the external meatus of the ear; called also earwax. [EU] Cervical: Pertaining to the neck, or to the neck of any organ or structure. [EU] Chemotherapy: The treatment of disease by means of chemicals that have a specific toxic effect upon the disease - producing microorganisms or that selectively destroy cancerous tissue. [EU] Chlamydia: A genus of the family chlamydiaceae whose species cause a variety of diseases in vertebrates including humans, mice, and swine. Chlamydia species are gram-negative and produce glycogen. The type species is chlamydia trachomatis. [NIH] Chloroquine: The prototypical antimalarial agent with a mechanism that is not well understood. It has also been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and in the systemic therapy of amebic liver abscesses. [NIH] Cholera: An acute diarrheal disease endemic in India and Southeast Asia whose causative agent is vibrio cholerae. This condition can lead to severe dehydration in a matter of hours unless quickly treated. [NIH] Cholestasis: Impairment of biliary flow at any level from the hepatocyte to Vater's ampulla. [NIH] Cholesterol: The principal sterol of all higher animals, distributed in body tissues, especially the brain and spinal cord, and in animal fats and oils. [NIH] Chorioretinitis: Inflammation of the choroid in which the sensory retina becomes edematous and opaque. The inflammatory cells and exudate may burst through the sensory retina to cloud the vitreous body. [NIH] Chromosomal: Pertaining to chromosomes. [EU] Chronic: Persisting over a long period of time. [EU] Clarithromycin: A semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic derived from erythromycin that is active against a variety of microorganisms. It can inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria by reversibly binding to the 50S ribosomal
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subunits. This inhibits the translocation of aminoacyl transfer-RNA and prevents peptide chain elongation. [NIH] Clindamycin: An antibacterial agent that is a semisynthetic analog of lincomycin. [NIH] Clostridium: A genus of motile or nonmotile gram-positive bacteria of the family bacillaceae. Many species have been identified with some being pathogenic. They occur in water, soil, and in the intestinal tract of humans and lower animals. [NIH] Clotrimazole: An imidazole derivative with a broad spectrum of antimycotic activity. It inhibits biosynthesis of the sterol ergostol, an important component of fungal cell membranes. Its action leads to increased membrane permeability and apparent disruption of enzyme systems bound to the membrane. [NIH] Coccidia: A subclass of protozoans commonly parasitic in the epithelial cells of the intestinal tract but also found in the liver and other organs. Its organisms are found in both vertebrates and higher invertebrates and comprise two orders: eimeriida and eucoccidiida. [NIH] Cochlear: Of or pertaining to the cochlea. [EU] Colorectal: Pertaining to or affecting the colon and rectum. [EU] Confusion: Disturbed orientation in regard to time, place, or person, sometimes accompanied by disordered consciousness. [EU] Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, generally consisting of conjunctival hyperaemia associated with a discharge. [EU] Contraception: The prevention of conception or impregnation. [EU] Convulsion: A violent involuntary contraction or series of contractions of the voluntary muscles. [EU] Cortical: Pertaining to or of the nature of a cortex or bark. [EU] Cryptococcosis: Infection with a fungus of the species cryptococcus neoformans. [NIH] Cryptococcus: A mitosporic Tremellales fungal genus whose species usually have a capsule and do not form pseudomycellium. Teleomorphs include Filobasidiella and Fidobasidium. [NIH] Cryptosporidiosis: Parasitic intestinal infection with severe diarrhea caused by a protozoan, cryptosporidium. It occurs in both animals and humans. [NIH] Cryptosporidium: A genus of coccidian parasites of the family cryptosporidiidae, found in the intestinal epithelium of many vertebrates including humans. [NIH] Crystallization: The formation of crystals; conversion to a crystalline form. [EU]
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Cyst: Any closed cavity or sac; normal or abnormal, lined by epithelium, and especially one that contains a liquid or semisolid material. [EU] Cysteine: A thiol-containing non-essential amino acid that is oxidized to form cystine. [NIH] Cystine: A covalently linked dimeric nonessential amino acid formed by the oxidation of cysteine. Two molecules of cysteine are joined together by a disulfide bridge to form cystine. [NIH] Cytokines: Non-antibody proteins secreted by inflammatory leukocytes and some non-leukocytic cells, that act as intercellular mediators. They differ from classical hormones in that they are produced by a number of tissue or cell types rather than by specialized glands. They generally act locally in a paracrine or autocrine rather than endocrine manner. [NIH] Cytomegalovirus: A genus of the family herpesviridae, subfamily betaherpesvirinae, infecting the salivary glands, liver, spleen, lungs, eyes, and other organs, in which they produce characteristically enlarged cells with intranuclear inclusions. Infection with Cytomegalovirus is also seen as an opportunistic infection in AIDS. [NIH] Cytotoxic: Pertaining to or exhibiting cytotoxicity. [EU] Degenerative: Undergoing degeneration : tending to degenerate; having the character of or involving degeneration; causing or tending to cause degeneration. [EU] Dehydration: The condition that results from excessive loss of body water. Called also anhydration, deaquation and hypohydration. [EU] Dementia: An acquired organic mental disorder with loss of intellectual abilities of sufficient severity to interfere with social or occupational functioning. The dysfunction is multifaceted and involves memory, behavior, personality, judgment, attention, spatial relations, language, abstract thought, and other executive functions. The intellectual decline is usually progressive, and initially spares the level of consciousness. [NIH] Dendritic: 1. branched like a tree. 2. pertaining to or possessing dendrites. [EU]
Deprivation: Loss or absence of parts, organs, powers, or things that are needed. [EU] Diarrhea: Passage of excessively liquid or excessively frequent stools. [NIH] Disinfectant: An agent that disinfects; applied particularly to agents used on inanimate objects. [EU] Dizziness: An imprecise term which may refer to a sense of spatial disorientation, motion of the environment, or lightheadedness. [NIH] Dysplasia: Abnormality of development; in pathology, alteration in size, shape, and organization of adult cells. [EU]
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Echinococcosis: An infection caused by the infestation of the larval form of tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. The liver, lungs, and kidney are the most common areas of infestation. [NIH] Eimeria: A genus of protozoan parasites of the subclass coccidia. Various species are parasitic in the epithelial cells of the liver and intestines of man and other animals. [NIH] Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain. [EU] Encephalomyelitis: A general term indicating inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, often used to indicate an infectious process, but also applicable to a variety of autoimmune and toxic-metabolic conditions. There is significant overlap regarding the usage of this term and encephalitis in the literature. [NIH] Encephalopathy: Any degenerative disease of the brain. [EU] Endocytosis: Cellular uptake of extracellular materials within membranelimited vacuoles or microvesicles. Endosomes play a central role in endocytosis. [NIH] Enzyme: A protein molecule that catalyses chemical reactions of other substances without itself being destroyed or altered upon completion of the reactions. Enzymes are classified according to the recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee of the International Union of Biochemistry. Each enzyme is assigned a recommended name and an Enzyme Commission (EC) number. They are divided into six main groups; oxidoreductases, transferases, hydrolases, lyases, isomerases, and ligases. [EU] Epidemic: Occurring suddenly in numbers clearly in excess of normal expectancy; said especially of infectious diseases but applied also to any disease, injury, or other health-related event occurring in such outbreaks. [EU] Epitopes: Sites on an antigen that interact with specific antibodies. [NIH] Erythromycin: A bacteriostatic antibiotic substance produced by Streptomyces erythreus. Erythromycin A is considered its major active component. In sensitive organisms, it inhibits protein synthesis by binding to 50S ribosomal subunits. This binding process inhibits peptidyl transferase activity and interferes with translocation of amino acids during translation and assembly of proteins. [NIH] Exogenous: Developed or originating outside the organism, as exogenous disease. [EU] Extracorporeal: Situated or occurring outside the body. [EU] Fatigue: The state of weariness following a period of exertion, mental or physical, characterized by a decreased capacity for work and reduced efficiency to respond to stimuli. [NIH]
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Febrile: Pertaining to or characterized by fever. [EU] Feces: The excrement discharged from the intestines, consisting of bacteria, cells exfoliated from the intestines, secretions, chiefly of the liver, and a small amount of food residue. [EU] Fibrosis: The formation of fibrous tissue; fibroid or fibrous degeneration [EU] Filariasis: Infections with nematodes of the superfamily filarioidea. The presence of living worms in the body is mainly asymptomatic but the death of adult worms leads to granulomatous inflammation and permanent fibrosis. Organisms of the genus Elaeophora infect wild elk and domestic sheep causing ischaemic necrosis of the brain, blindness, and dermatosis of the face. [NIH] Fistula: An abnormal passage or communication, usually between two internal organs, or leading from an internal organ to the surface of the body; frequently designated according to the organs or parts with which it communicates, as anovaginal, brochocutaneous, hepatopleural, pulmonoperitoneal, rectovaginal, urethrovaginal, and the like. Such passages are frequently created experimentally for the purpose of obtaining body secretions for physiologic study. [EU] Fleas: Parasitic, blood-sucking, wingless insects comprising the order Siphonaptera. [NIH] Fluconazole: Triazole antifungal agent that is used to treat oropharyngeal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis in AIDS. [NIH] Fluorescence: The property of emitting radiation while being irradiated. The radiation emitted is usually of longer wavelength than that incident or absorbed, e.g., a substance can be irradiated with invisible radiation and emit visible light. X-ray fluorescence is used in diagnosis. [NIH] Foetal: Of or pertaining to a fetus; pertaining to in utero development after the embryonic period. [EU] Foscarnet: An antiviral agent used in the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis. Foscarnet also shows activity against human herpesviruses and HIV. [NIH] Ganciclovir: Acyclovir analog that is a potent inhibitor of the Herpesvirus family including cytomegalovirus. Ganciclovir is used to treat complications from AIDS-associated cytomegalovirus infections. [NIH] Ganglioglioma: Rare indolent tumors comprised of neoplastic glial and neuronal cells which occur primarily in children and young adults. Benign lesions tend to be associated with long survival unless the tumor degenerates into a histologically malignant form. They tend to occur in the optic nerve and white matter of the brain and spinal cord. [NIH] Gastroenteritis: An acute inflammation of the lining of the stomach and
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intestines, characterized by anorexia, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weakness, which has various causes, including food poisoning due to infection with such organisms as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella species; consumption of irritating food or drink; or psychological factors such as anger, stress, and fear. Called also enterogastritis. [EU] Gastrointestinal: Pertaining to or communicating with the stomach and intestine, as a gastrointestinal fistula. [EU] Genitourinary: Pertaining to the genital and urinary organs; urogenital; urinosexual. [EU] Genotype: The genetic constitution of the individual; the characterization of the genes. [NIH] Gestation: The period of development of the young in viviparous animals, from the time of fertilization of the ovum until birth. [EU] Giardiasis: An infection of the small intestine caused by the flagellated protozoan giardia lamblia. It is spread via contaminated food and water and by direct person-to-person contact. [NIH] Granule: A small pill made from sucrose. [EU] Granulocytes: Leukocytes with abundant granules in the cytoplasm. They are divided into three groups: neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. [NIH] Hematocrit: Measurement of the volume of packed red cells in a blood specimen by centrifugation. The procedure is performed using a tube with graduated markings or with automated blood cell counters. It is used as an indicator of erythrocyte status in disease. For example, anemia shows a low hematocrit, polycythemia, high values. [NIH] Hematology: A subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with morphology, physiology, and pathology of the blood and blood-forming tissues. [NIH] Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine. [NIH] Hemoglobinopathies: A group of inherited disorders characterized by structural alterations within the hemoglobin molecule. [NIH] Hemorrhage: Bleeding or escape of blood from a vessel. [NIH] Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver. [EU] Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver. [EU] Herpes: Any inflammatory skin disease caused by a herpesvirus and characterized by the formation of clusters of small vesicles. When used alone, the term may refer to herpes simplex or to herpes zoster. [EU] Humoral: Of, relating to, proceeding from, or involving a bodily humour now often used of endocrine factors as opposed to neural or somatic. [EU]
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Hybridization: The genetic process of crossbreeding to produce a hybrid. Hybrid nucleic acids can be formed by nucleic acid hybridization of DNA and RNA molecules. Protein hybridization allows for hybrid proteins to be formed from polypeptide chains. [NIH] Hydrocephalus: A condition marked by dilatation of the cerebral ventricles, most often occurring secondarily to obstruction of the cerebrospinal fluid pathways, and accompanied by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull; the fluid is usually under increased pressure, but occasionally may be normal or nearly so. It is typically characterized by enlargement of the head, prominence of the forehead, brain atrophy, mental deterioration, and convulsions; may be congenital or acquired; and may be of sudden onset (acute h.) or be slowly progressive (chronic or primary b.). [EU]
Hyperbilirubinemia: Pathologic process consisting of an abnormal increase in the amount of bilirubin in the circulating blood, which may result in jaundice. [NIH] Hyperplasia: The abnormal multiplication or increase in the number of normal cells in normal arrangement in a tissue. [EU] Hypertension: Persistently high arterial blood pressure. Various criteria for its threshold have been suggested, ranging from 140 mm. Hg systolic and 90 mm. Hg diastolic to as high as 200 mm. Hg systolic and 110 mm. Hg diastolic. Hypertension may have no known cause (essential or idiopathic h.) or be associated with other primary diseases (secondary h.). [EU] Hypothyroidism: Deficiency of thyroid activity. In adults, it is most common in women and is characterized by decrease in basal metabolic rate, tiredness and lethargy, sensitivity to cold, and menstrual disturbances. If untreated, it progresses to full-blown myxoedema. In infants, severe hypothyroidism leads to cretinism. In juveniles, the manifestations are intermediate, with less severe mental and developmental retardation and only mild symptoms of the adult form. When due to pituitary deficiency of thyrotropin secretion it is called secondary hypothyroidism. [EU] Hypoxia: Reduction of oxygen supply to tissue below physiological levels despite adequate perfusion of the tissue by blood. [EU] Idiopathic: Of the nature of an idiopathy; self-originated; of unknown causation. [EU] Immunity: The condition of being immune; the protection against infectious disease conferred either by the immune response generated by immunization or previous infection or by other nonimmunologic factors (innate i.). [EU] Immunoassay: Immunochemical assay or detection of a substance by serologic or immunologic methods. Usually the substance being studied
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serves as antigen both in antibody production and in measurement of antibody by the test substance. [NIH] Immunogenic: Producing immunity; evoking an immune response. [EU] Immunohistochemistry: Histochemical localization of immunoreactive substances using labeled antibodies as reagents. [NIH] Induction: The act or process of inducing or causing to occur, especially the production of a specific morphogenetic effect in the developing embryo through the influence of evocators or organizers, or the production of anaesthesia or unconsciousness by use of appropriate agents. [EU] Infantile: Pertaining to an infant or to infancy. [EU] Infarction: 1. the formation of an infarct. 2. an infarct. [EU] Inflammation: A pathological process characterized by injury or destruction of tissues caused by a variety of cytologic and chemical reactions. It is usually manifested by typical signs of pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. [NIH] Influenza: An acute viral infection involving the respiratory tract. It is marked by inflammation of the nasal mucosa, the pharynx, and conjunctiva, and by headache and severe, often generalized, myalgia. [NIH] Ingestion: The act of taking food, medicines, etc., into the body, by mouth. [EU]
Integumentary: Pertaining to or composed of skin. [EU] Interferons: Proteins secreted by vertebrate cells in response to a wide variety of inducers. They confer resistance against many different viruses, inhibit proliferation of normal and malignant cells, impede multiplication of intracellular parasites, enhance macrophage and granulocyte phagocytosis, augment natural killer cell activity, and show several other immunomodulatory functions. [NIH] Interleukins: Soluble factors which stimulate growth-related activities of leukocytes as well as other cell types. They enhance cell proliferation and differentiation, DNA synthesis, secretion of other biologically active molecules and responses to immune and inflammatory stimuli. [NIH] Intermittent: Occurring at separated intervals; having periods of cessation of activity. [EU] Intoxication: Poisoning, the state of being poisoned. [EU] Iodine: A nonmetallic element of the halogen group that is represented by the atomic symbol I, atomic number 53, and atomic weight of 126.90. It is a nutritionally essential element, especially important in thyroid hormone synthesis. In solution, it has anti-infective properties and is used topically. [NIH]
Ischemia: Deficiency of blood in a part, due to functional constriction or
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actual obstruction of a blood vessel. [EU] Isoniazid: Antibacterial agent used primarily as a tuberculostatic. It remains the treatment of choice for tuberculosis. [NIH] Isospora: A genus of protozoan parasites found in the intestines of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, including man. The oocysts produce two sporocysts, each with four sporozoites. Many species are parasitic in wild and domestic animals. [NIH] Itraconazole: An antifungal agent that has been used in the treatment of histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, cryptococcal meningitis, and aspergillosis. [NIH]
Jaundice: A clinical manifestation of hyperbilirubinemia, consisting of deposition of bile pigments in the skin, resulting in a yellowish staining of the skin and mucous membranes. [NIH] Ketoconazole: Broad spectrum antifungal agent used for long periods at high doses, especially in immunosuppressed patients. [NIH] Kinetic: Pertaining to or producing motion. [EU] Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear. [NIH] Larva: Wormlike or grublike stage, following the egg in the life cycle of insects, worms, and other metamorphosing animals. [NIH] Lesion: Any pathological or traumatic discontinuity of tissue or loss of function of a part. [EU] Leucovorin: The active metabolite of folic acid. Leucovorin is used principally as its calcium salt as an antidote to folic acid antagonists which block the conversion of folic acid to folinic acid. [NIH] Leukaemia: An acute or chronic disease of unknown cause in man and other warm-blooded animals that involves the blood-forming organs, is characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of leucocytes in the tissues of the body with or without a corresponding increase of those in the circulating blood, and is classified according of the type leucocyte most prominently involved. [EU] Listeria: A genus of bacteria which may be found in the feces of animals and man, on vegetation, and in silage. Its species are parasitic on cold-blooded and warm-blooded animals, including man. [NIH] Lobe: A more or less well-defined portion of any organ, especially of the brain, lungs, and glands. Lobes are demarcated by fissures, sulci, connective tissue, and by their shape. [EU] Lupus: A form of cutaneous tuberculosis. It is seen predominantly in women and typically involves the nasal, buccal, and conjunctival mucosa. [NIH]
Lymphadenopathy: Disease of the lymph nodes. [EU]
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Lymphoma: Any neoplastic disorder of the lymphoid tissue, the term lymphoma often is used alone to denote malignant lymphoma. [EU] Lytic: 1. pertaining to lysis or to a lysin. 2. producing lysis. [EU] Malaise: A vague feeling of bodily discomfort. [EU] Malformation: A morphologic defect resulting from an intrinsically abnormal developmental process. [EU] Maxillary: Pertaining to the maxilla : the irregularly shaped bone that with its fellow forms the upper jaw. [EU] Mediator: An object or substance by which something is mediated, such as (1) a structure of the nervous system that transmits impulses eliciting a specific response; (2) a chemical substance (transmitter substance) that induces activity in an excitable tissue, such as nerve or muscle; or (3) a substance released from cells as the result of the interaction of antigen with antibody or by the action of antigen with a sensitized lymphocyte. [EU] Medicament: A medicinal substance or agent. [EU] Membrane: A thin layer of tissue which covers a surface, lines a cavity or divides a space or organ. [EU] Meningitis: Inflammation of the meninges. When it affects the dura mater, the disease is termed pachymeningitis; when the arachnoid and pia mater are involved, it is called leptomeningitis, or meningitis proper. [EU] Mental: Pertaining to the mind; psychic. 2. (L. mentum chin) pertaining to the chin. [EU] Microbiology: The study of microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, algae, archaea, and viruses. [NIH] Microorganism: A microscopic organism; those of medical interest include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. [EU] Microscopy: The application of microscope magnification to the study of materials that cannot be properly seen by the unaided eye. [NIH] Midwifery: The practice of assisting women in childbirth. [NIH] Mobility: Capability of movement, of being moved, or of flowing freely. [EU] Molecular: Of, pertaining to, or composed of molecules : a very small mass of matter. [EU] Mononucleosis: The presence of an abnormally large number of mononuclear leucocytes (monocytes) in the blood. The term is often used alone to refer to infectious mononucleosis. [EU] Motility: The ability to move spontaneously. [EU] Mutagenesis: Process of generating genetic mutations. It may occur spontaneously or be induced by mutagens. [NIH]
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Myalgia: Pain in a muscle or muscles. [EU] Mycobacterium: An organism of the genus Mycobacterium. [EU] Mycoplasma: A genus of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria bounded by a plasma membrane only. Its organisms are parasites and pathogens, found on the mucous membranes of humans, animals, and birds. [NIH]
Myiasis: The invasion of living tissues of man and other mammals by dipterous larvae. [NIH] Myocarditis: Inflammation of the myocardium; inflammation of the muscular walls of the heart. [EU] Myocardium: The muscle tissue of the heart composed of striated, involuntary muscle known as cardiac muscle. [NIH] Nausea: An unpleasant sensation, vaguely referred to the epigastrium and abdomen, and often culminating in vomiting. [EU] Neonatal: Pertaining to the first four weeks after birth. [EU] Neoplastic: Pertaining to or like a neoplasm (= any new and abnormal growth); pertaining to neoplasia (= the formation of a neoplasm). [EU] Nephropathy: Disease of the kidneys. [EU] Neurologic: Pertaining to neurology or to the nervous system. [EU] Neurology: A medical specialty concerned with the study of the structures, functions, and diseases of the nervous system. [NIH] Neuropathy: A general term denoting functional disturbances and/or pathological changes in the peripheral nervous system. The etiology may be known e.g. arsenical n., diabetic n., ischemic n., traumatic n.) or unknown. Encephalopathy and myelopathy are corresponding terms relating to involvement of the brain and spinal cord, respectively. The term is also used to designate noninflammatory lesions in the peripheral nervous system, in contrast to inflammatory lesions (neuritis). [EU] Neurosurgery: A surgical specialty concerned with the treatment of diseases and disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral and sympathetic nervous system. [NIH] Neurotoxins: Toxic substances from microorganisms, plants or animals that interfere with the functions of the nervous system. Most venoms contain neurotoxic substances. Myotoxins are included in this concept. [NIH] Neutrophil: Having an affinity for neutral dyes. [EU] Niacin: Water-soluble vitamin of the B complex occurring in various animal and plant tissues. Required by the body for the formation of coenzymes NAD and NADP. Has pellagra-curative, vasodilating, and antilipemic properties. [NIH]
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Nitrogen: An element with the atomic symbol N, atomic number 7, and atomic weight 14. Nitrogen exists as a diatomic gas and makes up about 78% of the earth's atmosphere by volume. It is a constituent of proteins and nucleic acids and found in all living cells. [NIH] Nystatin: Macrolide antifungal antibiotic complex produced by Streptomyces noursei, S. aureus, and other Streptomyces species. The biologically active components of the complex are nystatin A1, A2, and A3. [NIH]
Ocular: 1. of, pertaining to, or affecting the eye. 2. eyepiece. [EU] Ophthalmology: A surgical specialty concerned with the structure and function of the eye and the medical and surgical treatment of its defects and diseases. [NIH] Organelles: Specific particles of membrane-bound organized living substances present in eukaryotic cells, such as the mitochondria; the golgi apparatus; endoplasmic reticulum; lysomomes; plastids; and vacuoles. [NIH] Otitis: Inflammation of the ear, which may be marked by pain, fever, abnormalities of hearing, hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. [EU] Otorhinolaryngology: That branch of medicine concerned with medical and surgical treatment of the head and neck, including the ears, nose and throat. [EU]
Otosclerosis: A pathological condition of the bony labyrinth of the ear, in which there is formation of spongy bone (otospongiosis), especially in front of and posterior to the footplate of the stapes; it may cause bony ankylosis of the stapes, resulting in conductive hearing loss. Cochlear otosclerosis may also develop, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. [EU] Ototoxic: Having a deleterious effect upon the eighth nerve, or upon the organs of hearing and balance. [EU] Overdose: 1. to administer an excessive dose. 2. an excessive dose. [EU] Oxygenation: The process of supplying, treating, or mixing with oxygen. No:1245 - oxygenation the process of supplying, treating, or mixing with oxygen. [EU] Papillomavirus: A genus of papovaviridae causing proliferation of the epithelium, which may lead to malignancy. A wide range of animals are infected including humans, chimpanzees, cattle, rabbits, dogs, and horses. [NIH]
Parasitic: Pertaining to, of the nature of, or caused by a parasite. [EU] Parenteral: Not through the alimentary canal but rather by injection through some other route, as subcutaneous, intramuscular, intraorbital, intracapsular, intraspinal, intrasternal, intravenous, etc. [EU] Pathogen: Any disease-producing microorganism. [EU]
222 Toxoplasmosis
Pathologic: 1. indicative of or caused by a morbid condition. 2. pertaining to pathology (= branch of medicine that treats the essential nature of the disease, especially the structural and functional changes in tissues and organs of the body caused by the disease). [EU] Pediatrics: A medical specialty concerned with maintaining health and providing medical care to children from birth to adolescence. [NIH] Penis: The male organ of copulation and of urinary excretion, comprising a root, body, and extremity, or glans penis. The root is attached to the descending portions of the pubic bone by the crura, the latter being the extremities of the corpora cavernosa, and beneath them the corpus spongiosum, through which the urethra passes. The glans is covered with mucous membrane and ensheathed by the prepuce, or foreskin. The penis is homologous with the clitoris in the female. [EU] Pentamidine: Antiprotozoal agent effective in trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and some fungal infections; used in treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. It may cause diabetes mellitus, central nervous system damage, and other toxic effects. [NIH]
Perforation: 1. the act of boring or piercing through a part. 2. a hole made through a part or substance. [EU] Perinatal: Pertaining to or occurring in the period shortly before and after birth; variously defined as beginning with completion of the twentieth to twenty-eighth week of gestation and ending 7 to 28 days after birth. [EU] Petroleum: Naturally occurring complex liquid hydrocarbons which, after distillation, yield combustible fuels, petrochemicals, and lubricants. [NIH] Phagocytosis: Endocytosis of particulate material, such as microorganisms or cell fragments. The material is taken into the cell in membrane-bound vesicles (phagosomes) that originate as pinched off invaginations of the plasma membrane. Phagosomes fuse with lysosomes, forming phagolysosomes in which the engulfed material is killed and digested. [EU] Pharmacists: Those persons legally qualified by education and training to engage in the practice of pharmacy. [NIH] Photophobia: Abnormal visual intolerance of light. [EU] Placebos: Any dummy medication or treatment. Although placebos originally were medicinal preparations having no specific pharmacological activity against a targeted condition, the concept has been extended to include treatments or procedures, especially those administered to control groups in clinical trials in order to provide baseline measurements for the experimental protocol. [NIH] Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs with consolidation. [EU]
Glossary 223
Poisoning: A condition or physical state produced by the ingestion, injection or inhalation of, or exposure to a deleterious agent. [NIH] Polyradiculopathy: Disease or injury involving multiple spinal nerve roots. Polyradiculitis refers to inflammation of multiple spinal nerve roots. [NIH] Porphyria: A pathological state in man and some lower animals that is often due to genetic factors, is characterized by abnormalities of porphyrin metabolism, and results in the excretion of large quantities of porphyrins in the urine and in extreme sensitivity to light. [EU] Postnatal: Occurring after birth, with reference to the newborn. [EU] Potassium: An element that is in the alkali group of metals. It has an atomic symbol K, atomic number 19, and atomic weight 39.10. It is the chief cation in the intracellular fluid of muscle and other cells. Potassium ion is a strong electrolyte and it plays a significant role in the regulation of fluid volume and maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance. [NIH] Precursor: Something that precedes. In biological processes, a substance from which another, usually more active or mature substance is formed. In clinical medicine, a sign or symptom that heralds another. [EU] Prejudice: A preconceived judgment made without adequate evidence and not easily alterable by presentation of contrary evidence. [NIH] Prenatal: Existing or occurring before birth, with reference to the fetus. [EU] Presbycusis: Progressive bilateral loss of hearing that occurs in the aged. Syn: senile deafness. [NIH] Prevalence: The total number of cases of a given disease in a specified population at a designated time. It is differentiated from incidence, which refers to the number of new cases in the population at a given time. [NIH] Progressive: Advancing; going forward; going from bad to worse; increasing in scope or severity. [EU] Prophylaxis: The prevention of disease; preventive treatment. [EU] Prostate: A gland in males that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra. It secretes a substance that liquifies coagulated semen. It is situated in the pelvic cavity behind the lower part of the pubic symphysis, above the deep layer of the triangular ligament, and rests upon the rectum. [NIH] Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate. [EU] Protease: Proteinase (= any enzyme that catalyses the splitting of interior peptide bonds in a protein). [EU] Proteins: Polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. The specific sequence of amino acids determines the shape and function of the protein. [NIH]
Protozoan: 1. any individual of the protozoa; protozoon. 2. of or pertaining
224 Toxoplasmosis
to the protozoa; protozoal. [EU] Psychiatric: Pertaining to or within the purview of psychiatry. [EU] Pulmonary: Pertaining to the lungs. [EU] Radiology: A specialty concerned with the use of x-ray and other forms of radiant energy in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. [NIH] Reactivation: The restoration of activity to something that has been inactivated. [EU] Receptor: 1. a molecular structure within a cell or on the surface characterized by (1) selective binding of a specific substance and (2) a specific physiologic effect that accompanies the binding, e.g., cell-surface receptors for peptide hormones, neurotransmitters, antigens, complement fragments, and immunoglobulins and cytoplasmic receptors for steroid hormones. 2. a sensory nerve terminal that responds to stimuli of various kinds. [EU] Recombinant: 1. a cell or an individual with a new combination of genes not found together in either parent; usually applied to linked genes. [EU] Recurrence: The return of a sign, symptom, or disease after a remission. [NIH] Resection: Excision of a portion or all of an organ or other structure. [EU] Riboflavin: Nutritional factor found in milk, eggs, malted barley, liver, kidney, heart, and leafy vegetables. The richest natural source is yeast. It occurs in the free form only in the retina of the eye, in whey, and in urine; its principal forms in tissues and cells are as FMN and FAD. [NIH] Rifabutin: A broad-spectrum antibiotic that is being used as prophylaxis against disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex infection in HIVpositive patients. [NIH] Rubella: An acute, usually benign, infectious disease caused by a togavirus and most often affecting children and nonimmune young adults, in which the virus enters the respiratory tract via droplet nuclei and spreads to the lymphatic system. It is characterized by a slight cold, sore throat, and fever, followed by enlargement of the postauricular, suboccipital, and cervical lymph nodes, and the appearances of a fine pink rash that begins on the head and spreads to become generalized. Called also German measles, roetln, röteln, and three-day measles, and rubeola in French and Spanish. [EU] Salmonella: A genus of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that utilizes citrate as a sole carbon source. It is pathogenic for humans, causing enteric fevers, gastroenteritis, and bacteremia. Food poisoning is the most common clinical manifestation. Organisms within this genus are separated on the basis of antigenic characteristics, sugar fermentation patterns, and bacteriophage susceptibility. [NIH]
Glossary 225
Sarcoidosis: An idiopathic systemic inflammatory granulomatous disorder comprised of epithelioid and multinucleated giant cells with little necrosis. It usually invades the lungs with fibrosis and may also involve lymph nodes, skin, liver, spleen, eyes, phalangeal bones, and parotid glands. [NIH] Sarcoma: A tumour made up of a substance like the embryonic connective tissue; tissue composed of closely packed cells embedded in a fibrillar or homogeneous substance. Sarcomas are often highly malignant. [EU] Scabies: A contagious dermatitis of humans and various wild and domestic animals caused by the itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, transmitted by close contact, and characterized by a papular eruption over tiny, raised sinuous burrows (cuniculi) produced by digging into the upper layer of the epidermis by the egg-laying female mite, which is accompanied by intense pruritus and sometimes associated with eczema from scratching and secondary bacterial infection. Called also the itch and seven-year itch. [EU] Sclerosis: A induration, or hardening; especially hardening of a part from inflammation and in diseases of the interstitial substance. The term is used chiefly for such a hardening of the nervous system due to hyperplasia of the connective tissue or to designate hardening of the blood vessels. [EU] Secretion: 1. the process of elaborating a specific product as a result of the activity of a gland; this activity may range from separating a specific substance of the blood to the elaboration of a new chemical substance. 2. any substance produced by secretion. [EU] Seizures: Clinical or subclinical disturbances of cortical function due to a sudden, abnormal, excessive, and disorganized discharge of brain cells. Clinical manifestations include abnormal motor, sensory and psychic phenomena. Recurrent seizures are usually referred to as epilepsy or "seizure disorder." [NIH] Selenium: An element with the atomic symbol Se, atomic number 34, and atomic weight 78.96. It is an essential micronutrient for mammals and other animals but is toxic in large amounts. Selenium protects intracellular structures against oxidative damage. It is an essential component of glutathione peroxidase. [NIH] Seroconversion: The change of a serologic test from negative to positive, indicating the development of antibodies in response to infection or immunization. [EU] Serology: The study of serum, especially of antigen-antibody reactions in vitro. [NIH] Serum: The clear portion of any body fluid; the clear fluid moistening serous membranes. 2. blood serum; the clear liquid that separates from blood on clotting. 3. immune serum; blood serum from an immunized animal used for passive immunization; an antiserum; antitoxin, or antivenin. [EU]
226 Toxoplasmosis
Sinusitis: Inflammation of a sinus. The condition may be purulent or nonpurulent, acute or chronic. Depending on the site of involvement it is known as ethmoid, frontal, maxillary, or sphenoid sinusitis. [EU] Skeletal: Pertaining to the skeleton. [EU] Spastic: 1. of the nature of or characterized by spasms. 2. hypertonic, so that the muscles are stiff and the movements awkward. 3. a person exhibiting spasticity, such as occurs in spastic paralysis or in cerebral palsy. [EU] Spasticity: A state of hypertonicity, or increase over the normal tone of a muscle, with heightened deep tendon reflexes. [EU] Species: A taxonomic category subordinate to a genus (or subgenus) and superior to a subspecies or variety, composed of individuals possessing common characters distinguishing them from other categories of individuals of the same taxonomic level. In taxonomic nomenclature, species are designated by the genus name followed by a Latin or Latinized adjective or noun. [EU] Spectrum: A charted band of wavelengths of electromagnetic vibrations obtained by refraction and diffraction. By extension, a measurable range of activity, such as the range of bacteria affected by an antibiotic (antibacterial s.) or the complete range of manifestations of a disease. [EU] Spiramycin: A macrolide antibiotic produced by Streptomyces ambofaciens. The drug is effective against gram-positive aerobic pathogens, N. gonorrhoeae, and staphylococci. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria and Toxoplasma gondii. [NIH] Sporotrichosis: The commonest and least serious of the deep mycoses, characterized by nodular lesions of the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues. It is caused by inhalation of contaminated dust or by infection of a wound. [NIH]
Squamous: Scaly, or platelike. [EU] Stomach: An organ of digestion situated in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen between the termination of the esophagus and the beginning of the duodenum. [NIH] Subclinical: Without clinical manifestations; said of the early stage(s) of an infection or other disease or abnormality before symptoms and signs become apparent or detectable by clinical examination or laboratory tests, or of a very mild form of an infection or other disease or abnormality. [EU] Substrate: A substance upon which an enzyme acts. [EU] Sulfadiazine: A short-acting sulfonamide used in combination with pyrimethamine to treat toxoplasmosis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and in newborns with congenital infections. [NIH]
Glossary 227
Sulfisoxazole: One of the antibacterial sulfonamides generally used for treatment of infections. It is bacteriostatic against a wide range of gramnegative and gram-positive organisms, but acquired resistance is common. [NIH]
Sweat: The fluid excreted by the sweat glands. It consists of water containing sodium chloride, phosphate, urea, ammonia, and other waste products. [NIH] Syphilis: A contagious venereal disease caused by the spirochete treponema pallidum. [NIH] Systemic: Pertaining to or affecting the body as a whole. [EU] Teratogenic: Tending to produce anomalies of formation, or teratism (= anomaly of formation or development : condition of a monster). [EU] Teratogens: An agent that causes the production of physical defects in the developing embryo. [NIH] Testicular: Pertaining to a testis. [EU] Thalidomide: A pharmaceutical agent originally introduced as a nonbarbiturate hypnotic, but withdrawn from the market because of its known tetratogenic effects. It has been reintroduced and used for a number of immunological and inflammatory disorders. Thalidomide displays immunosuppresive and anti-angiogenic activity. It inhibits release of tumor necrosis factor alpha from monocytes, and modulates other cytokine action. [NIH]
Thyrotropin: A peptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary. It promotes the growth of the thyroid gland and stimulates the synthesis of thyroid hormones and the release of thyroxine by the thyroid gland. [NIH] Thyroxine: An amino acid of the thyroid gland which exerts a stimulating effect on thyroid metabolism. [NIH] Tinnitus: A noise in the ears, as ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, etc. Such sounds may at times be heard by others than the patient. [EU] Tolerance: 1. the ability to endure unusually large doses of a drug or toxin. 2. acquired drug tolerance; a decreasing response to repeated constant doses of a drug or the need for increasing doses to maintain a constant response. [EU]
Tomography: The recording of internal body images at a predetermined plane by means of the tomograph; called also body section roentgenography. [EU]
Topical: Pertaining to a particular surface area, as a topical anti-infective applied to a certain area of the skin and affecting only the area to which it is applied. [EU] Toxicity: The quality of being poisonous, especially the degree of virulence of a toxic microbe or of a poison. [EU]
228 Toxoplasmosis
Toxicology: The science concerned with the detection, chemical composition, and pharmacologic action of toxic substances or poisons and the treatment and prevention of toxic manifestations. [NIH] Toxin: A poison; frequently used to refer specifically to a protein produced by some higher plants, certain animals, and pathogenic bacteria, which is highly toxic for other living organisms. Such substances are differentiated from the simple chemical poisons and the vegetable alkaloids by their high molecular weight and antigenicity. [EU] Toxoplasma: A genus of protozoa parasitic to birds and mammals. T. gondii is one of the most common infectious pathogenic animal parasites of man. [NIH]
Toxoplasmosis: An acute or chronic, widespread disease of animals and humans caused by the obligate intracellular protozoon Toxoplasma gondii, transmitted by oocysts containing the pathogen in the feces of cats (the definitive host), usually by contaminated soil, direct exposure to infected feces, tissue cysts in infected meat, or tachyzoites (proliferating forms) in blood. [EU] Transfusion: The introduction of whole blood or blood component directly into the blood stream. [EU] Transplantation: The grafting of tissues taken from the patient's own body or from another. [EU] Tremor: An involuntary trembling or quivering. [EU] Trichinosis: A disease due to infection with trichinella spiralis. It is caused by eating undercooked meat, usually pork. [NIH] Trichuriasis: Infection with nematodes of the genus trichuris, formerly called Trichocephalus. [NIH] Tuberculosis: Any of the infectious diseases of man and other animals caused by species of mycobacterium. [NIH] Ubiquinone: A lipid-soluble benzoquinone which is involved in electron transport in mitochondrial preparations. The compound occurs in the majority of aerobic organisms, from bacteria to higher plants and animals. [NIH]
Uveitis: An inflammation of part or all of the uvea, the middle (vascular) tunic of the eye, and commonly involving the other tunics (the sclera and cornea, and the retina). [EU] Vaccination: The introduction of vaccine into the body for the purpose of inducing immunity. Coined originally to apply to the injection of smallpox vaccine, the term has come to mean any immunizing procedure in which vaccine is injected. [EU] Vaccine: A suspension of attenuated or killed microorganisms (bacteria,
Glossary 229
viruses, or rickettsiae), administered for the prevention, amelioration or treatment of infectious diseases. [EU] Vaginal: 1. of the nature of a sheath; ensheathing. 2. pertaining to the vagina. 3. pertaining to the tunica vaginalis testis. [EU] Vancomycin: Antibacterial obtained from Streptomyces orientalis. It is a glycopeptide related to ristocetin that inhibits bacterial cell wall assembly and is toxic to kidneys and the inner ear. [NIH] Varicella: Chicken pox. [EU] Vascular: Pertaining to blood vessels or indicative of a copious blood supply. [EU] Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity within a group or species of microorganisms or viruses as indicated by case fatality rates and/or the ability of the organism to invade the tissues of the host. [NIH] Viruses: Minute infectious agents whose genomes are composed of DNA or RNA, but not both. They are characterized by a lack of independent metabolism and the inability to replicate outside living host cells. [NIH] Vitreous: Glasslike or hyaline; often used alone to designate the vitreous body of the eye (corpus vitreum). [EU] Withdrawal: 1. a pathological retreat from interpersonal contact and social involvement, as may occur in schizophrenia, depression, or schizoid avoidant and schizotypal personality disorders. 2. (DSM III-R) a substancespecific organic brain syndrome that follows the cessation of use or reduction in intake of a psychoactive substance that had been regularly used to induce a state of intoxication. [EU] Yaws: A systemic non-venereal infection of the tropics caused by Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue. [NIH] Zoonoses: Diseases of non-human animals that may be transmitted to man or may be transmitted from man to non-human animals. [NIH]
General Dictionaries and Glossaries While the above glossary is essentially complete, the dictionaries listed here cover virtually all aspects of medicine, from basic words and phrases to more advanced terms (sorted alphabetically by title; hyperlinks provide rankings, information and reviews at Amazon.com): ·
Dictionary of Medical Acronymns & Abbreviations by Stanley Jablonski (Editor), Paperback, 4th edition (2001), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Publishers, ISBN: 1560534605, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1560534605/icongroupinterna
230 Toxoplasmosis
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Dictionary of Medical Terms : For the Nonmedical Person (Dictionary of Medical Terms for the Nonmedical Person, Ed 4) by Mikel A. Rothenberg, M.D, et al, Paperback - 544 pages, 4th edition (2000), Barrons Educational Series, ISBN: 0764112015, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764112015/icongroupinterna
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A Dictionary of the History of Medicine by A. Sebastian, CD-Rom edition (2001), CRC Press-Parthenon Publishers, ISBN: 185070368X, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/185070368X/icongroupinterna
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Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary (Standard Version) by Dorland, et al, Hardcover - 2088 pages, 29th edition (2000), W B Saunders Co, ISBN: 0721662544, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0721662544/icongroupinterna
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Dorland’s Electronic Medical Dictionary by Dorland, et al, Software, 29th Book & CD-Rom edition (2000), Harcourt Health Sciences, ISBN: 0721694934, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0721694934/icongroupinterna
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Dorland’s Pocket Medical Dictionary (Dorland’s Pocket Medical Dictionary, 26th Ed) Hardcover - 912 pages, 26th edition (2001), W B Saunders Co, ISBN: 0721682812, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0721682812/icongroupinterna /103-4193558-7304618
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Melloni’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary (Melloni’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary, 4th Ed) by Melloni, Hardcover, 4th edition (2001), CRC PressParthenon Publishers, ISBN: 85070094X, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/85070094X/icongroupinterna
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Stedman’s Electronic Medical Dictionary Version 5.0 (CD-ROM for Windows and Macintosh, Individual) by Stedmans, CD-ROM edition (2000), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Publishers, ISBN: 0781726328, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0781726328/icongroupinterna
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Stedman’s Medical Dictionary by Thomas Lathrop Stedman, Hardcover 2098 pages, 27th edition (2000), Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, ISBN: 068340007X, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/068340007X/icongroupinterna
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Tabers Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary (Thumb Index) by Donald Venes (Editor), et al, Hardcover - 2439 pages, 19th edition (2001), F A Davis Co, ISBN: 0803606540, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0803606540/icongroupinterna
Index 231
INDEX A Abdominal............102, 124, 195, 207, 215 Abdominal Pain ...........................102, 215 Abortion .............................85, 87, 89, 207 Abscess .................................................53 Adenosine......................................71, 207 Aetiology..............................................167 Agar .......................................................52 Alanine.................................................168 Anatomical.............................................97 Anemia ............................40, 74, 129, 215 Aneurysm ................................54, 71, 208 Anoxia..............................................51, 99 Antibiotic .......79, 102, 133, 134, 147, 210, 213, 221, 224, 226 Antibody....... 27, 71, 73, 75, 76, 82, 169, 208, 212, 217, 219, 225 Anticoagulants .....................................155 Antigen .......25, 27, 58, 65, 73, 75, 76, 82, 156, 208, 213, 217, 219, 225 Antimicrobial ..........................................59 Antiviral ................110, 133, 134, 207, 214 Apathy .................................................119 Arteriovenous ........................................54 Aspergillosis ................................134, 218 Assay.............................................75, 216 Asymptomatic ................17, 102, 110, 214 Atopic.....................................................60 Audiology...............................................97 Auditory ...........................................52, 97 Autopsy..................................................95 B Benign ...............................17, 27, 86, 224 Bilateral........................................104, 223 Bile.................................................46, 218 Biochemical ...........................................64 Biosynthesis ..........................63, 133, 211 Blastomycosis..............................134, 218 C Candidiasis ..............................50, 74, 214 Capsules..............................................165 Carbohydrate.................................63, 164 Carcinoma ...........................................156 Cerumen................................................98 Cervical..............................17, 27, 50, 224 Chemotherapy .................................11, 84 Chloroquine ...........................................52 Cholesterol ..................................162, 164 Chorioretinitis.............................17, 59, 64
Chronic....... 17, 28, 55, 65, 75, 82, 83, 99, 101, 104, 160, 168, 169, 184, 209, 216, 218, 226, 228 Clindamycin ........................................ 124 Cochlear................................................ 98 Confusion.............................................. 21 Cortical.................................... 27, 54, 225 Cryptococcosis ..................................... 50 Cryptosporidiosis .................... 50, 53, 110 Crystallization ....................................... 62 Cyst................................................. 58, 63 Cystine .......................................... 73, 212 Cytokines .......................... 56, 57, 58, 168 Cytomegalovirus .... 50, 51, 52, 53, 97, 98, 99, 134, 214 Cytotoxic ............................... 58, 155, 170 D Degenerative ........................ 26, 163, 213 Dehydration........................... 99, 101, 210 Dementia....................................... 50, 109 Dendritic.......................................... 56, 57 Diarrhea .................. 72, 92, 108, 162, 211 Dysplasia ................................ 54, 97, 129 E Encephalitis .... 17, 18, 21, 51, 58, 59, 61, 62, 64, 70, 84, 108, 124, 156, 157 Encephalomyelitis ................................. 95 Endocytosis............................. 56, 73, 213 Enzyme ...... 63, 73, 78, 79, 134, 211, 213, 223, 226 Epidemic ....................................... 57, 108 Epitopes ................................................ 58 Exogenous .............................. 56, 73, 213 Extracorporeal ...................................... 51 F Facial .................................................... 52 Febrile ................................................... 99 Feces .... 11, 12, 13, 21, 28, 103, 218, 228 Fibrosis ....................... 102, 104, 214, 225 Fistula ............................. 52, 53, 102, 215 Fluorescence .......................... 56, 74, 214 Foetal .................................................... 84 G Ganglioglioma....................................... 54 Gastroenteritis ........................ 78, 99, 224 Gastrointestinal ........................... 102, 215 Genitourinary ........................................ 53 Genotype .............................................. 55 Gestation................................. 83, 89, 222 Giardiasis .............................................. 53 Granule ................................................. 57
232 Toxoplasmosis
Granulocytes .......................................168 H Hematocrit .....................................74, 215 Hematuria ..............................................53 Herpes ....... 50, 51, 52, 74, 98, 108, 133, 207, 215 Hydrocephalus.......................................62 Hyperbilirubinemia...................46, 51, 218 Hyperplasia....................................78, 225 Hypertension .........................................51 Hypothyroidism........................51, 75, 216 Hypoxia....................................51, 71, 208 I Idiopathic .......................75, 104, 216, 225 Immunity ...53, 56, 57, 59, 61, 75, 79, 110, 111, 167, 168, 217, 228 Immunization ...........75, 79, 104, 216, 225 Immunogenic ...........................63, 70, 157 Immunohistochemistry ..........................56 Induction ..................................61, 64, 111 Infantile ..................................................54 Infarction................................................54 Inflammation .....28, 76, 78, 101, 102, 112, 124, 213, 214, 217, 220, 223, 225, 228 Influenza ................................................99 Ingestion ..............................104, 165, 223 Interferons ...........................................168 Interleukins ..........................................168 Intermittent.............................................54 Intoxication ..................................120, 229 Ischemia ..............................................109 J Jaundice ................................................40 L Lesion ....................................54, 101, 209 Leucovorin .................................17, 18, 41 Lobe.......................................................54 Lupus .............................................72, 210 Lymphadenopathy ...........................17, 58 Lymphoma.................26, 50, 53, 157, 219 M Malformation..........................................54 Maxillary ......................................104, 226 Mediator.................................................60 Medicament ...........................................84 Membrane ....51, 62, 73, 77, 98, 103, 134, 211, 213, 220, 221, 222 Meningitis ...51, 74, 76, 99, 118, 134, 214, 218, 219 Mental .....11, 30, 64, 73, 75, 85, 102, 119, 149, 152, 186, 212, 213, 216 Microbiology ................................111, 209 Microorganism .........71, 77, 155, 208, 221 Microscopy ............................................56 Molecular ......55, 60, 61, 63, 78, 105, 122, 126, 128, 224, 228
Motility................................................... 60 Mutagenesis ................................... 60, 62 Myalgia........................................ 102, 217 Mycobacterium ................................... 110 Myocarditis............................................ 67 Myocardium ............................ 15, 76, 220 N Nausea........................................ 102, 215 Neonatal.............................. 51, 52, 97, 99 Neoplastic ..... 26, 54, 60, 74, 85, 98, 214, 219 Nephropathy ......................................... 53 Neurologic..................................... 22, 124 Neurology...................................... 26, 220 Neuropathy ........................................... 98 Neutrophil.............................................. 56 Niacin .................................................. 163 Nitrogen ................................................ 85 Nystatin ....................................... 134, 221 O Ocular ............................................. 58, 59 Organelles............................................. 60 Otitis................................................ 51, 98 Otosclerosis .......................... 98, 104, 221 Ototoxic..................................... 51, 52, 98 Overdose ............................................ 163 Oxygenation............................ 51, 77, 221 P Parasitic .... 14, 20, 21, 23, 28, 40, 61, 84, 85, 99, 101, 103, 155, 211, 213, 218, 228 Parenteral ................................... 109, 170 Pathogen..................... 28, 57, 60, 62, 228 Pathologic ............................................. 54 Pentamidine ........................................ 108 Perinatal.................................. 87, 99, 109 Phagocytosis ........................ 56, 173, 217 Pharmacists ........................................ 108 Placebos ..................................... 111, 222 Pneumonia.... 50, 108, 110, 111, 199, 222 Poisoning ...................... 78, 102, 215, 224 Polyradiculopathy ............................... 109 Porphyria............................................... 54 Postnatal ............................................. 170 Potassium ........................................... 164 Precursor .............................................. 63 Prejudice ............................................... 99 Prenatal................................... 51, 99, 170 Presbycusis........................................... 98 Prevalence ............................................ 16 Progressive .... 22, 50, 53, 73, 75, 98, 109, 212, 216 Prophylaxis ..... 50, 84, 115, 124, 134, 224 Prostate................................... 53, 78, 223
Index 233
Proteins ..... 60, 61, 62, 64, 67, 71, 73, 74, 89, 102, 162, 164, 167, 170, 208, 212, 213, 216, 221 Protozoan ...14, 55, 56, 57, 62, 64, 72, 74, 85, 86, 96, 101, 103, 211, 213, 215, 218 Pulmonary .............................................51 R Reactivation.........................17, 55, 57, 64 Receptor ........................................71, 208 Recombinant .........................................62 Recurrence ............................................22 Riboflavin.............................................162 Rubella ....................22, 51, 52, 97, 98, 99 S Sarcoma ..................................50, 53, 110 Sclerosis ..................................54, 99, 129 Secretion ..60, 75, 79, 101, 173, 210, 216, 217, 225 Seizures...........................27, 99, 124, 225 Selenium..............................................164 Serology ............................17, 85, 95, 203 Serum ........................27, 79, 83, 156, 225 Sinusitis .......................................104, 226 Skeletal ..................................................15 Spastic .................................109, 112, 226 Spasticity .....................................112, 226 Species .......14, 27, 28, 57, 62, 71, 72, 80, 101, 102, 103, 134, 208, 210, 211, 213, 215, 218, 221, 226, 228, 229 Spectrum .......56, 133, 134, 211, 218, 224 Squamous ...........................................156 Stomach ..............100, 102, 209, 214, 215 Subclinical .........................17, 27, 87, 225 Sulfadiazine .......................18, 40, 59, 124
Syphilis.......................... 51, 52, 97, 98, 99 Systemic ...... 53, 72, 104, 105, 209, 210, 225, 229 T Teratogenic ..................................... 52, 98 Thalidomide .......................................... 52 Thermoregulation................................ 162 Thyrotropin............................ 75, 167, 216 Thyroxine ............ 164, 167, 168, 174, 227 Tinnitus ................................... 77, 97, 221 Tolerance ...................................... 79, 227 Tomography.......................................... 85 Toxicity................................................ 168 Toxicology........................................... 123 Toxin ............................................. 79, 227 Toxoplasma ..... 68, 82, 95, 114, 155, 167, 168, 169 Transfusion ..................................... 11, 15 Transplantation ................. 11, 15, 85, 170 Tremor ................................................ 129 Tuberculosis.......... 50, 103, 124, 134, 218 U Ubiquinone............................................ 62 Uveitis ................................................... 96 V Vaccine ....... 60, 62, 79, 87, 114, 115, 228 Vascular .................................. 28, 54, 228 Virulence ................................. 55, 79, 227 Viruses ..... 26, 76, 80, 100, 133, 173, 207, 208, 217, 219, 229 Vitreous........................... 25, 80, 210, 229 W Withdrawal .......................................... 119 Z Zoonoses ...................................... 94, 155
234 Toxoplasmosis
Index 235
236 Toxoplasmosis
