Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma Gondii in pregnant females referring to Ashrafi Isfahani Hospital in Khomeinishahr, 1998-2000

Primary infection of toxoplasma gondii in pregnancy may lead to death, abortion, severe infection of neonates and asymptomatic but progressive infections. With respect to the known complications of toxoplasma gondii, the present study was conducted in Ashrafi Isfahani hospital in Khomeinishahr, 1998-2000, to determine the seroepidemiology of toxoplasma gondii in parturients. 270 parturients aged 15-45 years were included. Having received 5ml peripheral blood sample, the presence of antibody was determined in dilutions of 1/20 and 1/100. In case of positive results in dilution of 1/100, tests were carried out for higher titers. Titer of 1/20 was considered as the criteria for diagnosis, however titer of 1/400 was considered significant. Toxoplasma gondii was revealed in 32.2% of the subjects, of which, 17.6% had IgM antibody and 82.6% had IgG. Most of the affected individuals aged 20-25 years (36.7%). Results have revealed that toxoplasma gondii is relatively prevalent in Khomeinishahr. Bear in mind the susceptibility of pregnant women as well as high expenses of serologic screening tests, the necessity of educational programs in felt further.