Cerebral toxoplasmosis in population with immunosuppressive therapy: A research trends analysis using bibliometrics and scientific mapping

Cerebral toxoplasmosis poses a severe threat to individuals with compromised immune systems. Its ability to reactivate from dormant tissue cysts in the brain underscores its significant global impact on public health and socioeconomic conditions. Therefore, the aim of this study is to perform a research trends analysis using bibliometric and scientific mapping to identify current research trends, prominent researchers, and areas of knowledge that need further exploration. This analysis will provide recommendations for future research directions and clinical practice for cerebral toxoplasmosis in populations undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Publications were sourced online from the Scopus database on June 1st, 2024. The studies were screened by title and abstract, excluding irrelevant ones. The publication output was then analyzed using the R package’s Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny) and VOSviewer. Out of 122 studies, 41 were included. The study highlights significant increases in publications in 2016, 2019, and 2021, each featuring five documents. Collaboration is a notable aspect, averaging 5.3 co-authors per study, with international co-authorships making up 7.3% of the total. The United States is the leading contributing country. Recent trends show a growing focus on diagnosing and clinically examining cerebral toxoplasmosis, managing therapeutic measures, exploring immunological and pathological issues, and addressing the challenges of treating patients with immunosuppressive therapy. In conclusion, this study clarifies the evolving study priorities in cerebral toxoplasmosis among populations using immunosuppressive therapy, highlighting significant trends and identifying key areas for future investigation and development on early detection and the use of prophylaxis.