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Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.
1Motherrisk Program, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario.
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|February 16, 2006
Summary
A positive Toxoplasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) test indicates past exposure, not current infection. This is generally not a risk for future pregnancies, as immunity is established.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Immunology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite.
- Past exposure to Toxoplasma results in immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody presence.
- Current infection is indicated by immunoglobulin M (IgM) titres.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the implications of a positive Toxoplasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) test in a woman planning pregnancy.
- To assess the risks associated with past Toxoplasma exposure for maternal and fetal health.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing for Toxoplasma antibodies, specifically IgG and IgM.
- Interpretation of antibody titres in the context of reproductive planning.
Main Results:
- A positive IgG result signifies prior infection and established immunity.
- IgG positivity alone does not indicate a current risk of transmission.
- IgM positivity would be required to suggest a recent or active infection.
Conclusions:
- A positive Toxoplasma IgG test in a woman planning pregnancy indicates past exposure and immunity.
- This status generally poses no risk to a future pregnancy or the developing fetus.
- Further testing for IgM is crucial if a recent infection is suspected.