[Maternal pancytopenia during antenatal treatment of congenital toxoplasmosis].

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of reference of congenital toxoplasmosis combines two folate synthesis inhibitors, pyrimethamine and an antibacterial sulfamide (sulfadiazine or sulfadoxine). Despite the efficacy of this combination, the possibility of eventually severe side effects must also be taken into account.

OBSERVATION: A pancytopenia occurred at 37 weeks of amenorrhea during antenatal treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis in a tripara. The outcome was positive following administration of strong doses of parenteral folinic acid combined with platelet transfusion and broad-spectrum antibiotics.

DISCUSSION: Each of the molecules (pyrimethamine and antibacterial sulfamide) used for the treatment of congenital toxoplasmosis can lead to acute haematological problems. The occurrence of maternal pancytopenia however remains exceptional. It is principally related to pyrimethamine and is usually observed in the presence of factors enhancing folate deficiency.