Neurological Toxoplasmosis in a Dog: The First Case Report from Iran

Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, can manifest with diverse clinical signs, including neurological symptoms, although it is more commonly reported in immunocompromised individuals. This paper presents the first clinical case report of suspected neurological toxoplasmosis in an immunocompetent household dog from Iran, referred to the Teaching Hospital of the University of Tehran. The 5-year-old Shih Tzu terrier presented with a one-month history of seizures and blindness. Laboratory evaluations, including CT scans revealing hyperattenuated brain lesions, and a positive blood PCR for T. gondii, confirmed the diagnosis. Administration of oral clindamycin as an antiparasitic treatment, alongside phenobarbital for managing seizures, resulted in significant clinical improvement within two weeks, with total recovery achieved by two months. This case highlights the importance of considering neurological toxoplasmosis in dogs presenting with acute neurological signs, especially with a history of coprophagia.