Definition

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. The purpose of a toxoplasmosis test is to identify the presence of the infection or prior infection in a suspected person.

Several diagnostic tests can be performed to identify toxoplasmosis, one of which is a serologic testing. The body could produce specific antibodies (IgG or IgM) as a result when the individual is infected by T. gondii parasite. This testing could help in telling whether the individual is currently infected or they have prior history of toxoplasmosis infection. 

IgG or immunoglobulin G is usually produced some time after the infection and will remain for the rest of their life. Detected toxoplasma IgG levels in the body mean that the individual has immunity to toxoplasmosis.

We also have an article on toxoplasmosis which you can read here: Toxoplasmosis - Definition, Cause and Risk Factor.

Indication

A toxoplasmosis test may be recommended by your doctor for:

• Women who are attempting to conceive or are in the early stages of pregnancy
• Pregnant women with history of exposure to toxoplasma
• Assessing whether the developing fetus of pregnant women has contracted toxoplasmosis 
• Any person displaying symptoms of toxoplasmosis
• Specific individuals with compromised immune systems who exhibit flu-like symptoms.

There are two types of toxoplasma antibody test, IgM and IgG antibody test. IgG test is the initial diagnostic test employed to ascertain if an individual has prior exposure to T. gondii. A positive toxoplasma IgG test result indicates a past infection without specifying the exact time of infection.

Contraindication

There are no individuals for whom it is advised against to check their serum anti-toxoplasma IgG level; everyone is eligible to undergo blood tests for monitoring anti-toxoplasma IgG in their bodies.

Preparations Prior to Test

No test preparation is needed prior to the anti-toxoplasma IgG test. Ensure your healthcare provider is aware of any medications or supplements you may be taking. Whether or not you need to stop taking any of these medications for the test depends on your physician's instructions.

Additionally, if you have the symptoms suspected of toxoplasmosis, and you have a history of coming into contact with a cat or cleaning a litter box, you ought to inform your doctor about it. It is also important to inform your doctor if you experience bleeding issues, or if you are currently taking a blood thinner medication.

Test Procedures

A healthcare professional will extract a blood sample from a vein, usually in your arm, using a tiny needle. Once the needle is placed, a little sample of blood will be drawn into a test tube. You may experience a slight stinging sensation when the needle is inserted or removed.

Normal And Abnormal Values

The levels of anti-toxoplasma IgG are measured in IU/mL or international units per milliliter. The used reference will differ among various laboratories depending on the specific assay or procedure utilized to check the antibody levels.

If your test results are normal, it indicates that you probably have never been infected with toxoplasma. Absence of IgG antibodies suggests that the individual lacks immunity to toxoplasmosis. In the event of a woman contracting the infection during the early stage of pregnancy, there is a possibility of transmitting the parasite to the developing fetus. 

A positive IgG test result indicates that the individual has developed immunity to toxoplasmosis. In pregnant women, this means that they are not at risk of transmitting toxoplasmosis to their developing babies.

Results and Suggestions (Continued Inspection)

Anti-toxoplasma IgG and IgM levels are typically measured together. The results can be normal, negative, positive or indeterminate. For ambiguous test results, the individual is typically requested to repeat the test. The table below displays the interpretation of both toxoplasma antibodies.

Consult To The Right Doctor

It's essential for you to engage in discussions with their doctor or internist regarding the interpretation of your test results. Your doctor can tell you what your test results mean and how they relate to your medical condition or your disease.

Want to know more information about laboratory, radiology and other examination results? Click here!