Which infection is caused by a protozoan and poses a risk to pregnant women?

Toxoplasmosis is indeed caused by a protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii, which poses significant risks to pregnant women and their unborn children. The infection can be acquired through several routes, including ingestion of undercooked or raw meat containing the parasite, consumption of contaminated water or food, and exposure to cat feces, which can harbor the oocysts of the protozoan.

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable because if they become infected during pregnancy, there is a risk of transmission to the fetus. This can lead to serious complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital defects such as hydrocephalus and chorioretinitis. Screening and awareness of Toxoplasma exposure are important in prenatal care to mitigate these risks.

In contrast, syphilis is a bacterial infection that can also affect pregnancy, but it is not caused by a protozoan. Listeriosis is a bacterial infection linked to foodborne pathogens, and while it presents risks during pregnancy, it is not associated with protozoa. HIV, a viral infection, can impact pregnancy and the health of the baby, but it does not involve protozoan pathogens either. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effectively managing infections in pregnant women.