Sulfadiazine
Occlusive Dressings
Anti-Infective Agents, Local
Silver
Pyrimethamine
Atovaquone
Burns
Toxoplasma
Toxoplasmosis, Cerebral
Fluorocarbon Polymers
Chorioretinitis
Naphthoquinones
Ointments
Trimethoprim
Sulfamethoxazole
Toxoplasmosis, Ocular
Recombinant bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (rBPI21) in combination with sulfadiazine is active against Toxoplasma gondii. (1/178)
The activity of recombinant bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (rBPI21), alone or in combination with sulfadiazine, on the intracellular replication of Toxoplasma gondii was assessed in vitro and in mice with acute toxoplasmosis. rBPI21 markedly inhibited the intracellular growth of T. gondii in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs). Following 72 h of exposure, the 50% inhibitory concentration of rBPI21 for T. gondii was 2.6 micrograms/ml, whereas only slight cytotoxicity for HFF cells was observed at the concentrations tested. Subsequent mathematical analyses revealed that the combination of rBPI21 with sulfadiazine yielded slight to moderate synergistic effects against T. gondii in vitro. Infection of mice orally with C56 cysts or intraperitoneally (i.p.) with RH tachyzoites resulted in 100% mortality, whereas prolongation of the time to death or significant survival (P = 0.002) was noted for those animals treated with 5 to 20 mg of rBPI21 per kg of body weight per day. Treatment with rBPI21 in combination with sulfadiazine resulted in significant (P = 0.0001) survival of mice infected i.p. with tachyzoites but not of mice infected orally with T. gondii cysts. These results indicate that rBPI21 is active in vitro and in vivo against T. gondii and that its activity is significantly enhanced when it is used in combination with sulfadiazine. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the activity of rBPI21 against a protozoan parasite. (+info)Fetal cataract in congenital toxoplasmosis. (2/178)
We report a case of the prenatal diagnosis of fetal cataract due to congenital toxoplasmosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of such a case. We discuss the long-term ocular sequelae of the condition and how they should affect prenatal counselling. (+info)Early aqueous humor analysis in patients with human ocular toxoplasmosis. (3/178)
To evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity of a panel of laboratory tests for ocular toxoplasmosis performed at the time of presentation, paired samples of aqueous humor and serum were collected from 49 consecutive episodes of ocular toxoplasmosis with a clinical course of less than 3 weeks. Total immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Toxoplasma gondii-specific IgG, IgM, and IgA were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The avidity of T. gondii-specific IgG was determined, and DNA extracted from aqueous humor was amplified for detection of a glycoprotein B gene sequence of T. gondii. The diagnosis was confirmed for 73% (36 of 49) of the patients; this rate rose to 79.5% if data from a later analysis of aqueous humor derived from five of the negative patients were included. The analysis of serum (detection of T. gondii-specific IgM and analysis of consecutive serum samples) alone did not contribute to the diagnosis. Calculation of local antibody production lacked diagnostic sensitivity when it was determined less than 3 weeks after the manifestation of clinical symptoms (28 of 49 patients [57%]), but this rose to 70% after an analysis of a second aqueous humor sample. The antibody avidity index attained diagnostic significance in only 8 of 43 instances (19%), and T. gondii DNA was amplified from no more than 6 of 39 (16%) aqueous humor samples. However, T. gondii-specific IgA was found within the aqueous humors of 11 of 43 patients (26%); measurement of the T. gondii-specific IgA level thus contributed substantially to the diagnostic sensitivity of the laboratory tests. (+info)Suppression of leukocyte chemotaxis in vitro by chemotherapeutic agents used in the management of thermal injuries. (4/178)
Polymorphonuclear leukocytes from burned patients exhibit suppressed chemotaxis possibly related to the susceptibility of such patients to opportunistic infection. This study assesses the effect of normal serum upon burn-suppressed leukocytes and the effects of three commonly used topical chemotherapeutic agents upon the chemotaxis exhibited by granulocytes from normal controls. In vitro incubation with normal serum restored chemotaxis to normal in the suppressed granulocytes from burned patients. The serum factor responsible for this restoration was heat labile. Serum albumin alone did not exhibit this effect. Both mafenide and silver sulfadiazine suppressed the chemotactic function of granulocytes obtained from normal controls, while silver nitrate exhibited no such activity. Studies of the chemotactic function of control granulocytes after incubation with sera from burned patients yielded similar results; only the sera from patients treated with silver nitrate failed to suppress normal leukotaxis. The chemotactic impairment found in leukocytes from burned patients, however, while related to burn size and predictive of prognosis, did not vary with the agent used for the topical therapy. These data suggest the presence of a reversible intrinsic defect in leukotaxis consequent to burn injury, related to some factor deficient in burn serum. In addition, extrinsic impairment of normal granulocyte leukotaxis by two commonly used chemotherapeutic agents is demonstrated. (+info)Treatment of gonorrhea in the male with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole using a one- or two-dose regimen. (5/178)
One hundred and eighty-four male patients with uncomplicated gonorrhea were treated in a randomized double-blind trial using two drug regimens. The combinations used were co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim, 80 mg and sulfamethoxazole, 400 mg) and TMP-SDZ (sulfadiazine, 400 mg and trimethoprim, 80 mg). In 43 patients who received eight tablets of co-trimoxazole in a single dose the cure rate was 88%. In the 46 patients who received a second dose of eight tablets 24 hours later the cure rate was 100%. When TMP-SDZ was used according to the same schedule the respective cure rates were 85% (41 patients) and 86% (35 patients). It is suggested that the two-dose regimen with co-trimoxazole is very effective in the treatment of uncomplicated urethral gonorrhea in the male and that the single-dose regimen, although less effective, may well prove adequate in patients defaulting after the initial treatment. At the present time, and with our local conditions, this form of treatment should be reserved for patients sensitive to penicillin or whose infections are resistant to this agent. The attack rate for patients having an episode of gonorrhea in the 12-month period immediately preceding the trial bore a direct relation to the outcome of therapy. It was highest (26%) in the group with an unsatisfactory outcome and lowest(4.3%) in the group with the highest cure rate. No adverse toxic reactions to the drug were recorded. (+info)Anti-toxoplasma activities of antiretroviral drugs and interactions with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine in vitro. (6/178)
The anti-Toxoplasma activities of nine antiretroviral drugs were examined in vitro. Nucleoside analogs had no effect on parasite growth, whereas ritonavir and nelfinavir were inhibitory for Toxoplasma, with 50% inhibitory concentrations of 5.4 and 4.0 microg/ml, respectively. None of the antiviral drugs affected the anti-Toxoplasma activity of pyrimethamine or sulfadiazine. (+info)Inactivation of Treponema pallidum by silver sulfadiazine. (7/178)
Silver sulfadiazine, an anti-infectious agent for the prevention and treatment of burn sepsis, has been found to possess antitreponemal activity against Treponema pallidum. At 28 C, complete inactivation of the organism was produced by exposure of the organism to a concentration of 50 mug of the drug per ml for 1 to 5 min, 12 to 25 mug/ml for 10 to 15 min, and 6.2 mug/ml for 30 min. At 37 C, the amounts of silver sulfadiazine required for inactivation were two- to fourfold less. (+info)Granulomatous amebic encephalitis in a patient with AIDS: isolation of acanthamoeba sp. Group II from brain tissue and successful treatment with sulfadiazine and fluconazole. (8/178)
A patient with AIDS, treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, presented with confusion, a hemifield defect, and a mass lesion in the right occipital lobe. A brain biopsy confirmed granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE) due to Acanthamoeba castellanii. The patient was treated with fluconazole and sulfadiazine, and the lesion was surgically excised. This is the first case of AIDS-associated GAE responding favorably to therapy. The existence of a solitary brain lesion, absence of other sites of infection, and intense cellular response in spite of a very low CD4 count conditioned the favorable outcome. We review and discuss the diagnostic microbiologic options for the laboratory diagnosis of infections due to free-living amebae. (+info)Sulfadiazine is an antibacterial drug, specifically a sulfonamide. It is chemically described as 4-amino-N-(2-pyrimidinyl)benzenesulfonamide. Sulfadiazine works by inhibiting the bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid, which is essential for bacterial growth and reproduction.
It is used to treat a wide range of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and certain types of meningitis. Sulfadiazine is often combined with other antibiotics, such as trimethoprim, to increase its effectiveness against certain bacteria.
Like all sulfonamides, sulfadiazine can cause side effects, including skin rashes, allergic reactions, and stomach upset. It should be used with caution in people who are allergic to sulfa drugs or have kidney or liver disease. Additionally, it is important to note that the use of sulfonamides during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, should be avoided due to the risk of kernicterus in the newborn.
Silver Sulfadiazine is a topical antimicrobial cream, primarily used for the prevention and treatment of burn wounds' infections. It has broad-spectrum activity against various bacteria, including gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, as well as some fungi. The cream creates a physical barrier that helps minimize bacterial growth and contains silver, which has antimicrobial properties. Silver Sulfadiazine is often used in combination with other burn wound care treatments to optimize healing and reduce the risk of complications such as sepsis.
The medical definition of Silver Sulfadiazine can be stated as:
A topical antimicrobial agent, chemically described as silver(I) 1-(4-amino-2-sulfonylphenyl)-2-(N-pyrimidin-2-ylsulfamoyl)ethanone dihydrate. It is primarily used for the prevention and treatment of infections associated with burn wounds due to its broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal properties. The compound is available as a white cream, which forms a protective layer on the wound, releasing silver ions that inhibit bacterial growth and promote healing.
Occlusive dressings are specialized bandages or coverings that form a barrier over the skin, preventing air and moisture from passing through. They are designed to create a moist environment that promotes healing by increasing local blood flow, reducing wound desiccation, and encouraging the growth of new tissue. Occlusive dressings can also help to minimize pain, scarring, and the risk of infection in wounds. These dressings are often used for dry, necrotic, or hard-to-heal wounds, such as pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and burns. It is important to monitor the wound closely while using occlusive dressings, as they can sometimes lead to skin irritation or maceration if left in place for too long.
Silver compounds refer to chemical substances that combine silver (Ag) with one or more other elements. In the medical context, silver compounds are known for their antimicrobial properties and have been used in various medical applications such as wound dressings, creams, and coatings on medical devices.
Some examples of silver compounds include:
* Silver sulfadiazine (AgSD): a common topical antibiotic used to prevent and treat bacterial infections in burn wounds.
* Silver nitrate (AgNO3): a strong antiseptic used to treat wounds, skin infections, and eye conditions such as neonatal conjunctivitis.
* Silver chloride (AgCl): a compound used in some wound dressings for its antimicrobial properties.
* Silver proteinate: a silver compound that is often used in dietary supplements and claimed to have immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, although its efficacy is not well established.
It's important to note that while silver compounds can be effective antimicrobial agents, they can also have potential side effects such as skin irritation, discoloration, and in some cases, argyria (a bluish-gray discoloration of the skin caused by excessive accumulation of silver). Therefore, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Anti-infective agents, local, are medications that are applied directly to a specific area of the body to prevent or treat infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. These agents include topical antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and anti-parasitic drugs. They work by killing or inhibiting the growth of the infectious organisms, thereby preventing their spread and reducing the risk of infection. Local anti-infective agents are often used to treat skin infections, eye infections, and other localized infections, and can be administered as creams, ointments, gels, solutions, or drops.
Antiprotozoal agents are a type of medication used to treat protozoal infections, which are infections caused by microscopic single-celled organisms called protozoa. These agents work by either killing the protozoa or inhibiting their growth and reproduction. They can be administered through various routes, including oral, topical, and intravenous, depending on the type of infection and the severity of the illness.
Examples of antiprotozoal agents include:
* Metronidazole, tinidazole, and nitazoxanide for treating infections caused by Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica.
* Atovaquone, clindamycin, and pyrimethamine-sulfadoxine for treating malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum or other Plasmodium species.
* Pentamidine and suramin for treating African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense or T. b. rhodesiense.
* Nitroimidazoles, such as benznidazole and nifurtimox, for treating Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi.
* Sodium stibogluconate and paromomycin for treating leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania species.
Antiprotozoal agents can have side effects, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the drug and the individual patient's response. It is essential to follow the prescribing physician's instructions carefully when taking these medications and report any adverse reactions promptly.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Silver" is not a medical term. It is a chemical element with the symbol Ag and atomic number 47. Silver is a soft, white, lustrous transition metal that occurs in its pure, free form (native silver) as an alloy with gold and other metals, and in minerals such as argentite and chlorargyrite.
In the medical field, silver compounds have been used for their antimicrobial properties. For example, silver sulfadiazine is a common topical cream used to prevent or treat wound infections. Colloidal silver, a suspension of silver particles in a liquid, has also been promoted as a dietary supplement and alternative treatment for various conditions, but its effectiveness and safety are not well-established.
Coccidiostats are a type of medication used to prevent and treat coccidiosis, which is an infection caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Coccidia. These medications work by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of the parasites in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, particularly poultry and livestock.
Coccidiostats are commonly added to animal feed to prevent infection and reduce the spread of coccidiosis within a flock or herd. They can also be used to treat active infections, often in combination with other medications. Common examples of coccidiostats include sulfaquinoxaline, monensin, and lasalocid.
It's important to note that the use of coccidiostats in food-producing animals is regulated by government agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to ensure their safe use and to minimize the risk of residues in animal products.
Pyrimethamine is an antiparasitic medication that is primarily used to treat and prevent protozoan infections, such as toxoplasmosis and malaria. It works by inhibiting the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, which is essential for the parasite's survival. By doing so, it interferes with the synthesis of folate, a vital component for the growth and reproduction of the parasite.
Pyrimethamine is often used in combination with other medications, such as sulfonamides or sulfones, to increase its effectiveness and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains. Common side effects of pyrimethamine include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and headache. It is important to note that pyrimethamine should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to its potential for serious side effects and interactions with other medications.
Atovaquone is an antiprotozoal medication used for the treatment and prevention of certain parasitic infections. It works by inhibiting the mitochondria of the parasites, disrupting their energy production and ultimately leading to their death. Atovaquone is available as a oral suspension or coated tablets and is often prescribed for conditions such as Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), Toxoplasma gondii encephalitis, and babesiosis. It is also used for the prevention of PCP in people with weakened immune systems due to HIV/AIDS or other causes.
The medical definition of Atovaquone can be stated as:
"Atovaquone is an antiprotozoal medication (synthetic hydroxynaphthoquinone) that exhibits activity against a variety of protozoa, including Plasmodium falciparum (the parasite responsible for malaria), Pneumocystis jirovecii (the causative agent of PCP), Toxoplasma gondii, and Babesia microti. It is used primarily for the treatment and prevention of PCP in individuals with compromised immune systems, as well as for the treatment of babesiosis and toxoplasmosis."
Burns are injuries to tissues caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, friction, or radiation. They are classified based on their severity:
1. First-degree burns (superficial burns) affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis), causing redness, pain, and swelling.
2. Second-degree burns (partial-thickness burns) damage both the epidermis and the underlying layer of skin (dermis). They result in redness, pain, swelling, and blistering.
3. Third-degree burns (full-thickness burns) destroy the entire depth of the skin and can also damage underlying muscles, tendons, and bones. These burns appear white or blackened and charred, and they may be painless due to destroyed nerve endings.
Immediate medical attention is required for second-degree and third-degree burns, as well as for large area first-degree burns, to prevent infection, manage pain, and ensure proper healing. Treatment options include wound care, antibiotics, pain management, and possibly skin grafting or surgery in severe cases.
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It is caused by the intracellular protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This parasite can infect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including birds and mammals, as intermediate hosts. However, cats are the primary definitive host for this parasite because the sexual stage of the parasite's life cycle occurs in their intestines, leading to the shedding of oocysts (environmentally resistant stages) in their feces.
Animals can become infected with Toxoplasma gondii through several routes:
1. Ingestion of sporulated oocysts from contaminated soil, water, or food.
2. Consumption of tissue cysts present in the tissues of infected animals during predation.
3. Vertical transmission (transplacental) from an infected mother to her offspring.
Clinical signs and symptoms of toxoplasmosis in animals can vary depending on their age, immune status, and the parasite's virulence. In many cases, animals may not show any apparent signs of infection, but some may develop:
1. Generalized illness with fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
2. Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes).
3. Neurological symptoms such as tremors, ataxia (lack of coordination), or seizures if the central nervous system is affected.
4. Eye lesions, including inflammation and scarring of the retina, which can lead to vision loss in severe cases.
5. Reproductive issues, such as abortion, stillbirths, or birth defects in offspring when pregnant females are infected.
It is important to note that while toxoplasmosis can cause significant health problems in animals, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and developing fetuses, it is often asymptomatic or mild in healthy adult animals. Nonetheless, the zoonotic potential of Toxoplasma gondii highlights the importance of practicing good hygiene and taking necessary precautions when handling infected animals or their waste to minimize the risk of transmission to humans.
"Toxoplasma" is a genus of protozoan parasites, and the most well-known species is "Toxoplasma gondii." This particular species is capable of infecting virtually all warm-blooded animals, including humans. It's known for its complex life cycle that involves felines (cats) as the definitive host.
Infection in humans, called toxoplasmosis, often occurs through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through contact with cat feces that contain T. gondii oocysts. While many people infected with Toxoplasma show no symptoms, it can cause serious health problems in immunocompromised individuals and developing fetuses if a woman becomes infected during pregnancy.
It's important to note that while I strive to provide accurate information, this definition should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Cerebral toxoplasmosis is a type of toxoplasmosis, which is an infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. In cerebral toxoplasmosis, the infection primarily affects the brain, leading to inflammation and the formation of lesions or abscesses in the brain tissue.
This condition is most commonly observed in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS, receiving immunosuppressive therapy after organ transplantation, or having other conditions that compromise their immune function. The infection can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including headaches, seizures, confusion, memory loss, poor coordination, and in severe cases, coma or even death. Early diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antiparasitic medications are crucial to manage the infection and prevent complications.
Fluorocarbon polymers are a type of synthetic polymeric material that contain carbon-fluorine bonds. These materials are known for their chemical inertness, high stability, and resistance to heat, chemicals, and water. They are often used in various medical applications such as in the coating of medical devices, implants, and drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility and non-reactive properties.
Fluorocarbon polymers can be classified into two main categories: perfluoropolymers and fluoropolymers. Perfluoropolymers contain only carbon and fluorine atoms, while fluoropolymers contain other elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, or nitrogen in addition to carbon and fluorine.
Examples of fluorocarbon polymers used in medical applications include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). These materials have a wide range of properties that make them useful in various medical applications, such as low coefficient of friction, high electrical resistance, and excellent chemical resistance.
Chorioretinitis is a medical term that refers to the inflammation of the choroid and the retina, which are both important structures in the eye. The choroid is a layer of blood vessels that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina, while the retina is a light-sensitive tissue that converts light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain and interpreted as visual images.
Chorioretinitis can be caused by various infectious and non-infectious conditions, such as bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer. The symptoms of chorioretinitis may include decreased vision, floaters, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and eye pain. Treatment for chorioretinitis depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, antiviral medications, corticosteroids, or other immunosuppressive therapies. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of chorioretinitis, as timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent vision loss.
A skin cream is not a medical term per se, but it generally refers to a topical emollient preparation intended for application to the skin. It contains a mixture of water, oil, and active ingredients, which are formulated to provide various benefits such as moisturizing, protecting, soothing, or treating specific skin conditions. The exact definition and composition may vary depending on the product's intended use and formulation.
Examples of active ingredients in skin creams include:
1. Moisturizers (e.g., glycerin, hyaluronic acid) - help to retain water in the skin, making it feel softer and smoother.
2. Emollients (e.g., shea butter, coconut oil, petrolatum) - provide a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss and soften the skin.
3. Humectants (e.g., urea, lactic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids) - attract water from the environment or deeper layers of the skin to hydrate the surface.
4. Anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., hydrocortisone, aloe vera) - help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with various skin conditions.
5. Antioxidants (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract) - protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors that can lead to premature aging.
6. Sunscreen agents (e.g., zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, chemical filters) - provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
7. Skin lighteners (e.g., hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin) - help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
8. Acne treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids) - target acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores, and regulate cell turnover to prevent breakouts.
It is essential to choose a skin cream based on your specific skin type and concerns, as well as any medical conditions or allergies you may have. Always consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before starting a new skincare regimen.
Naphthoquinones are a type of organic compound that consists of a naphthalene ring (two benzene rings fused together) with two ketone functional groups (=O) at the 1 and 2 positions. They exist in several forms, including natural and synthetic compounds. Some well-known naphthoquinones include vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone), which are important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Other naphthoquinones have been studied for their potential medicinal properties, including anticancer, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, some naphthoquinones can also be toxic or harmful to living organisms, so they must be used with caution.
An ointment is a semi-solid preparation, typically composed of a mixture of medicinal substance with a base, which is usually greasy or oily. The purpose of the base is to act as a vehicle for the active ingredient and allow it to be applied smoothly and evenly to the skin or mucous membranes.
Ointments are commonly used in dermatology to treat various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, burns, and wounds. They can also be used to deliver medication for localized pain relief, muscle relaxation, and anti-inflammatory or antibiotic effects.
The base of an ointment may consist of various ingredients, including petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, beeswax, or a combination of these. The choice of the base depends on the desired properties such as consistency, spreadability, and stability, as well as the intended route of administration and the specific therapeutic goals.
Trimethoprim is an antibiotic medication that is primarily used to treat bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting the bacterial enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and protein. This leads to bacterial cell death. Trimethoprim is often combined with sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide antibiotic) to create a more effective antibacterial therapy known as co-trimoxazole or TMP-SMX.
Medical Definition:
Trimethoprim is a synthetic antibacterial drug that selectively inhibits bacterial dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme required for the synthesis of tetrahydrofolate, a cofactor involved in the biosynthesis of thymidine and purines. By blocking this essential pathway, trimethoprim disrupts bacterial DNA and protein synthesis, leading to bacteriostatic activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Trimethoprim is often combined with sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide antibiotic) to create a more effective antibacterial therapy known as co-trimoxazole or TMP-SMX, which inhibits two consecutive steps in the bacterial folate synthesis pathway.
Sulfamethoxazole is a type of antibiotic known as a sulfonamide. It works by interfering with the ability of bacteria to produce folic acid, which is necessary for their growth and survival. Sulfamethoxazole is often combined with trimethoprim (another antibiotic) in a single medication called co-trimoxazole, which is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections.
The medical definition of Sulfamethoxazole can be found in various pharmaceutical and medical resources, here are some examples:
* According to the Merck Manual, Sulfamethoxazole is a "synthetic antibacterial drug that inhibits bacterial synthesis of folic acid by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid for the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase."
* According to the British National Formulary (BNF), Sulfamethoxazole is a "sulfonamide antibacterial agent, active against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is often combined with trimethoprim in a 5:1 ratio as co-trimoxazole."
* According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), Sulfamethoxazole is a "synthetic antibacterial agent that is used in combination with trimethoprim for the treatment of various bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting the bacterial synthesis of folic acid."
It's important to note that, as any other medication, Sulfamethoxazole should be taken under medical supervision and following the instructions of a healthcare professional, as it can cause side effects and interact with other medications.
Ocular toxoplasmosis is an inflammatory eye disease caused by the parasitic infection of Toxoplasma gondii in the eye's retina. It can lead to lesions and scarring in the retina, resulting in vision loss or impairment. The severity of ocular toxoplasmosis depends on the location and extent of the infection in the eye. In some cases, it may cause only mild symptoms, while in others, it can result in severe damage to the eye. Ocular toxoplasmosis is usually treated with medications that target the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, such as pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine, often combined with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.