Rapid progression of neurotoxoplasmosis in a patient with concomitant rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematous

Abstract

Dear Editor Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common human infections. About one-third of the entire world population is infected with latent toxoplasmosis.1-6 Central nervous system (CNS) toxoplasmosis occurs due to reactivation of previous latent infection. Patients usually present with fever, headache, impaired consciousness, seizures, and/ or focal neurological deficits.1-5 CNS toxoplasmosis may complicate the clinical course of patients with acquired human immunodeficiency (e.g. AIDS), immune system disease, or prolonged pharmacologic immunosuppressive treatment.1-5 Because the clinical picture and diagnosis are challenging, neurotoxoplasmosis may mimic several other CNS disorders, being especially difficult to manage and frequently requiring empiric treatment.1-5 We present an unusual case of neurotoxoplasmosis developing in a patient with concomitant rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematous (SLE).