Toxoplasmosis

occurs in two main forms—tuberculoid and lepromatous—depending on the immune

status of the individual.

People contract toxoplasmosis by ingesting

oocytes discharged in the feces of acutely infected cats or inadequately cooked

meat containing tissue cysts.

Toxoplasmosis

may cause encephalitis, brain masses, and other nervous system problems in

immunodeficient people.

Toxoplasmosis

is usually asymptomatic among healthy people, although some people develop sore

throat, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes and spleen.

Infection

of the fetus, especially during the first trimester, results in miscarriage,

stillbirth, or birth defects.