Fatal acute respiratory distress by Toxoplasma gondii in a toxoplasma seronegative liver transplant recipient

New Microbiol. 2016 Apr;39(2):160-2.

Abstract

The risk of Toxoplasma gondii infection in solid organ transplant recipients is well known but mainly after heart transplantation. We discuss a case of acute respiratory distress caused by Toxoplasma gondii on Day 32 after liver transplantation. The reported case, which is extremely rare, emphasizes how direct examination and Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (QPCR) in broncholaveolar lavage help to diagnose the infection. Given Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole toxicity, systematic prescription of Toxoplasma gondii chemoprophylaxis is not commonly approved in liver transplantation.

Keywords: Bronchoalveolar lavage; Direct examination; Liver transplantation; Toxoplasmosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Lung Diseases, Parasitic / etiology
  • Lung Diseases, Parasitic / pathology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Tissue Donors
  • Toxoplasmosis / pathology*