Ch. 23 - Microbial Diseases of the Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems

Tortora - Microbiology: An Introduction 14th Edition

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Tortora 14th Edition

Ch. 23 - Microbial Diseases of the Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems

Problem 10

Chapter 23, Problem 10

Most people have been infected with this microorganism, often without symptoms. Infection during pregnancy can result in deafness or intellectual disabilities in the newborn.

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Identify the microorganism described by the problem: it is one that commonly infects people, often asymptomatically, but can cause serious congenital issues such as deafness or intellectual disabilities if the mother is infected during pregnancy.

Recall common congenital infections known to cause such outcomes; these are often grouped under the acronym TORCH (Toxoplasma, Other agents, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus).

Focus on the microorganism that is most frequently asymptomatic in the general population but is notorious for causing congenital defects including hearing loss and intellectual disabilities—this is Cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Understand that CMV is a member of the Herpesviridae family and establishes lifelong latency, which explains why many people have been infected without symptoms.

Summarize that the microorganism in question is Cytomegalovirus, which is important in microbiology and clinical medicine due to its impact on congenital infections.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Toxoplasma gondii Infection

Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that infects many people worldwide, often without causing symptoms. It is typically acquired through undercooked meat or contact with cat feces. While usually asymptomatic, it can cause serious complications if a woman is infected during pregnancy.

Congenital Toxoplasmosis

When a pregnant woman acquires Toxoplasma gondii infection, the parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. This congenital infection can lead to severe outcomes such as deafness, intellectual disabilities, and other neurological impairments in the newborn.

Asymptomatic Infection and Public Health Implications

Many individuals infected with Toxoplasma gondii show no symptoms, making detection difficult without screening. Understanding asymptomatic carriage is important for public health, especially in pregnant women, to prevent congenital transmission through education and preventive measures.

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