Toxoplasma Gondii IgG antibodies

Toxoplasma gondii antibody test – this is a laboratory test that helps determine whether a person is infected with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which causes toxoplasmosis. This parasite can inhabit almost all mammal and bird organisms. Humans are usually intermediate hosts, and the main source of infection is cats, which excrete oocysts of the parasite with their feces.

Humans usually get infected orally when oocysts or cysts of toxoplasmas enter the body. This occurs by consuming insufficiently thermally processed meat (especially pork, lamb), drinking contaminated water, eating unwashed vegetables, fruits, or through contaminated hands. The infection can also be transmitted through damaged skin or mucous membranes.

Toxoplasmosis is usually asymptomatic, especially in people with a strong immune system. In some cases, lymph node enlargement (in the neck, armpits, groin area), weakness, fever, muscle pain, night sweats, rash, enlargement of the liver and spleen may occur.

The infection can be very dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause congenital toxoplasmosis in the fetus. The highest risk is when a woman contracts acute toxoplasmosis 3 months before conception or at the beginning of pregnancy. Some newborns are born without obvious symptoms, but the effects of the disease may become apparent later – in childhood or adolescence.

Test Principle: IgG and IgM antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii are detected in the blood. The presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent or acute infection, IgG – a past or chronic infection. Additionally, an IgG avidity test may be performed to help determine when the infection occurred.

Recommendations:

• Recommended for women before planning pregnancy or during pregnancy.
• Useful in suspected acute toxoplasmosis with lymph node enlargement or nonspecific symptoms.
• Prescribed for infants suspected of congenital infection.
• Performed to determine immunity to Toxoplasma gondii after infection or due to occupational risk.
• It is recommended to come for the test fasting, but it is not necessary. The doctor must be informed about pregnancy or planning to conceive.