CONGENITAL TOXOPLASMOSIS: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY IN THE SOUTHERN REGION OF BRAZIL FROM 2019 TO 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is a zoonosis with widespread geographical distribution. Congenital toxoplasmosis occurs when the infection is transmitted from mother to fetus, especially if the primary infection occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy, potentially causing severe ophthalmological and neurological complications. Objective: This study aims to analyze the epidemiology of congenital toxoplasmosis cases in the Southern region of Brazil, covering the period from 2019 to 2023. Methodology: This is an ecological, descriptive, quantitative, and retrospective study, analyzing epidemiological data from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) of patients reported with congenital toxoplasmosis from January 2019 to March 2023 in the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. The data were obtained from the database of the Department of Informatics of SUS (DATASUS). Results Analysis and Discussion: During this period, the study sample included a total of 3,092 patients diagnosed with congenital toxoplasmosis in the three states of the Southern region of Brazil. Rio Grande do Sul recorded the highest number of cases with 1,110 diagnoses, followed by Santa Catarina with 1,012 and Paraná with 970. Conclusions: Congenital toxoplasmosis represents a significant challenge for the healthcare system in the Southern region of Brazil, both in terms of incidence and public health impact. The relatively uniform distribution of cases among the states highlights the need for continuous surveillance and constant adaptation of public health strategies. Implementing quality prenatal care and adopting primary prevention measures are crucial to prevent transplacental transmission. Training healthcare professionals and raising public awareness are essential for promoting effective prophylaxis.