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Current Sexual Health Reports

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01-12-2017 | Preclinical and Psychophysiology (F Guarraci and L Marson, Section Editors)

Sexual Transmission of Cyst-Forming Coccidian Parasites with Complex Life Cycles

Authors: Samira Abdulai-Saiku, Wen Han Tong, Ajai Vyas

Published in: Current Sexual Health Reports | Issue 4/2017

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Cyst-forming heteroxenous Apicomplexan parasites are important parasites of both humans and animals. Here, we discuss currently available evidence of possible sexual transmission of these parasites.

Recent Findings

Seven genera of Apicomplexans are known to have multi-mode, multi-host life cycles. Prior studies have examined the possibility of sexual transmission in three of these genera: Besnoitia, Neospora, and Toxoplasma. There is extensive evidence of sexual transmission of Toxoplasma in several nonhuman animals. However, evidence for the sexual transmission in humans remains equivocal. Sexual transmission of Besnoitia and Neospora has remained contentious given the small number of inconclusive reports.

Summary

It is important to determine if Toxoplasma is a sexually transmitted infection in humans, due to the clinical implications of Toxoplasma in immune-deficient humans and its potential effects on pregnancy. Additionally, this class of parasites can serve as useful perturbation systems to understand the development of virulence and breach of the blood-testes barrier.

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Title: Sexual Transmission of Cyst-Forming Coccidian Parasites with Complex Life Cycles
Authors: Samira Abdulai-Saiku
Wen Han Tong
Ajai Vyas
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Current Sexual Health Reports / Issue 4/2017
Print ISSN: 1548-3584
Electronic ISSN: 1548-3592
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-017-0133-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Sexual Transmission of Cyst-Forming Coccidian Parasites with Complex Life Cycles

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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