Toxoplasmosis in Pregnancy: An Integrated Review of General Perspectives and the Sri Lankan Context

Toxoplasma gondii is a cosmopolitan zoonotic protozoan with significant public health implications. Recognised primarily as a leading foodborne pathogen, humans can also acquire the infection through other routes. A critical concern arises when primary infection occurs during pregnancy, as this may result in congenital toxoplasmosis, often leading to fetal complications. This review presents a brief overview of global and Sri Lankan studies on toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, with data sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar, alongside a focused examination of Sri Lankan literature. Timely diagnosis and accurate determination of the timing of acute infections are vital for managing acute maternal infections, as prompt treatment can significantly reduce vertical transmission and mitigate long-term fetal consequences. Despite its importance, Sri Lankan literature on the subject remains limited. Available studies indicate substantial exposure to the parasite, alongside a considerable proportion of non-immune pregnant women vulnerable to primary infections during gestation. Furthermore, awareness about toxoplasmosis among this population is notably low, highlighting the need for targeted health education to prevent primary infections during pregnancy. This review also addresses the specific challenges faced in Sri Lanka, including the absence of universal antenatal and neonatal screening programs, limited access to diagnostic facilities, and restricted availability of effective treatments. Strengthening these areas is essential to improve maternal and fetal outcomes. The findings highlight the need for more research and public health interventions in the Sri Lankan context to address the gaps in awareness, prevention, and management of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.