Association of toxoplasmosis with some mental disorders: A relation to be validated

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Sharkia, Egypt

2 Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig university, Sharkia, Egypt

Abstract

Background: T. gondii, a protozoan, offers a compelling illustration of manipulation that modifies host behavior specifically to improve transmission. It is regarded as one of the most significant waterborne and foodborne parasites with veterinary and medicinal implications. Although toxoplasmosis is the most common opportunistic infection causing localized brain disease in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients, the infection is generally benign and asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. Due to its neurotropic nature and other characteristics, T. gondii is now alleged to has a potential negative impact on people's cognitive function and may be associated with aggression, personality changes, cognitive deficits, and mental illnesses. Psychiatric disorders have drawn public attention as they are linked with reduced quality of life (QOL), which covers a variety of objective and subjective domains that represent an individual's overall physical and mental well-being, such as family and social relationships, academic and professional performance, economic and health status, and living circumstances. This review aims to figure out the possible role of toxoplasmosis in some psychiatric disorders. Although this link is not yet clearly verified, understanding this correlation may be the optimistic key in the treatment of those patients, enhancing their quality of life, reducing morbidity and mortality rates, and minimizing the financial strain on both patients and the government.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Microbes and Infectious Diseases

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 06 January 2025

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