Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma infection in pregnant women in Yazd in 2012

Toxoplasmosis, caused by a protozoan called" Toxoplasma gondii", is one of the most common parasitic infections in humans and animals throughout the world. Toxoplasma infection in pregnant women, especially at the first trimester of pregnancy, may lead to miscarriage or birth complications in the nervous system and ocular complications. Conducting such studies can provide practical approaches for the treatment and prevention of these complications. This is a cross-sectional study. To determine the levels of specific antibodies against Toxoplasmosis gondii, 181 serum samples were collected from pregnant women who had referred to the health center clinics of Yazd for pregnancy examinations. Sera were tested for anti-Toxoplasmosis IgG antibody by ELISA method. Data were then analyzed using χ2 test, t-test and Fisher exact test. This study showed that a total of 58 samples (32%) were seropositive for anti-Toxoplasmosis IgG antibodies. A significantrelationship was found between the titers of IgG and age (P <0.05). Also a significant relationship was observed between IgG antibody titers and educational level (P <0.05). There was, however, no significant relationship between the positive antibody titers and other variables. Most pregnant women do not have immunity against Toxoplasmosis in Yazd. These women are at the risk of acquired toxoplasmosis in their pregnancy period. Therefore Toxoplasma serological surveillance during pregnancy as well as provision of the necessary training to enhance prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis seems to be urgent.