Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole therapy for ocular toxoplasmosis.

BACKGROUND

Toxoplasmosis is a leading cause of retinochoroiditis. Conventional multidrug therapy using sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid is increasingly difficult to procure and administer safely.

METHODS

To evaluate the efficacy of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, a fixed-combination antibiotic, patients with active toxoplasmosis were treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim DS) with or without adjunctive clindamycin and prednisone for 4 to 6 weeks.

RESULTS

All patients in this study (n = 16) had resolution of active retinochoroiditis and had improved vision, with an average gain of 5.2 lines of vision. Two patients developed a drug allergy.

CONCLUSION

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole appears to be a safe and effective substitute for sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid (Leucovorin) in treating ocular toxoplasmosis.