Feline neonatal toxoplasmosis and cystoisospora coinfection – Case Report

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii and Cystoisopora spp. are coccidian protozoa and compulsory intracellular parasites. These parasites present an enteric cycle phase, wild and domestic felines are definitive hosts capable of eliminating non-sporulated oocysts by faeces. Furthermore, they share the same transmission path, through the ingestion of infectious oocysts or the ingestion of cysts present on tissues. Most cat infections occur subclinically. Commonly, clinical and severe disease develops more often in kittens and immunocompromised animals. The present paper reports a case of coinfection of T. gondii and Cystoisospora spp in a feline of approximately 20 days old, weighing 260 grams, assisted at the Veterinary Hospital - UEM. The patient presented acute signs of limited mobility, remaining only in sternal position, cervical ventroflexion, dyspnea, lethargy and anorexia. T. gondii was identified through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test using a blood sample, whereas the co-analysis by flotation in saturated saline solution (Willis technique) was able to verify the presence of oocysts of Cystoisospora spp. After negative result from PCR test using stool sample, the presence of Cystoisospora spp. was confirmed, differentiating it from oocysts of T. gondii. The treatment based on sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim was able to control the infection and decrease disease symptoms, proving to be effective and showing significant clinical improvement within 3 days after starting the treatment.