If a pregnant woman is infected with Toxoplasma gondii, which outcomes can occur for the fetus after birth?

• A. miscarriage only
• B. stillbirth only
• C. congenital toxoplasmosis
• D. miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital toxoplasmosis

Answer: (D)

Infection with Toxoplasma gondii during pregnancy can be transmitted to the fetus, leading to a range of outcomes. If the infection occurs early, it can cause fetal loss, resulting in miscarriage or stillbirth. If the fetus survives, the baby may be born with congenital toxoplasmosis, which can involve the brain and eyes and may present with hydrocephalus, intracranial calcifications, chorioretinitis, jaundice, or hepatosplenomegaly; some infants are asymptomatic at birth but can develop problems later. Because both fetal loss and congenital infection are possible, the full range of outcomes includes miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital toxoplasmosis.