Toxoplasma testing, often known as toxoplasmosis testing, is a medical test that uses blood analysis to diagnose toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection which is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondi.
This test assesses the presence of antibodies against this parasite in the body. The kind and amount of antibodies present aid in determining whether the infection happened recently or in the past.
Adults are often asymptomatic and unaffected by toxoplasmosis. This illness is mainly caused by consuming raw or undercooked meat and does not require treatment. You might become infected when touching contaminated pets, such as cats.
What is the purpose of the Toxoplasma test?
This test is typically advised to pregnant women to screen for toxoplasmosis in the mother or baby. If left untreated, this illness can cause brain damage and blindness in the growing fetus.
When your doctor believes you have toxoplasmosis, he or she will order the test. If a pregnant woman becomes ill, the parasite poses a risk to her unborn child. It is also harmful to persons who have HIV/AIDS.
The test is performed on pregnant women to:
- Check to see if the lady is now infected or has had an illness in the past.
- Examine the infant to see if he or she has the infection.
- Antibodies present before pregnancy are likely to protect a developing infant from toxoplasmosis after delivery. Nevertheless, antibodies that form during pregnancy may indicate that both the mother and the infant are sick. This illness raises the chance of miscarriage or birth abnormalities during pregnancy.
This test can also be performed if you have:
How to prepare for the test?
The test requires no extra preparation. If something is required additionally, then the doctor will inform you beforehand.
What happens during the test?
Some patients may experience some pain when the needle is placed to draw blood. Some merely feel a prick or sting. There may be some pain or a little bruise thereafter. This is quickly forgotten.
What are the risks of the test?
There are generally no risks or dangers associated with this test. However, some people may feel discomfort or pain with this test. But it will go soon.
Understanding results
Normal Results
Normal findings indicate that you have never been infected with toxoplasma.
Normal value ranges may change slightly between laboratories. Several laboratories employ various metrics or test various samples. Discuss the significance of your individual test result with your physician.
Abnormal Results
Abnormal findings indicate that you are most likely infected with the parasite. There are two kinds of antibodies measured: IgM and IgG:
- If your IgM antibody levels are elevated, you were most likely infected recently (or current).
- If your IgG antibody level is high, you have been infected in the past.
**Note- Toxoplasma Test costs in India at different locations may vary
Book a Toxoplasma Test at Medicover Hospitals. Call us at 040-68334455
