Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Toxoplasmosis in Female Students from Northwest Iran

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a significant zoonotic disease caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This infection can have dire consequences if it occurs during pregnancy, as it may result in spontaneous abortion or congenital disorders. Using serological methods, we investigated the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in female students of childbearing age and also determined the association between Toxoplasma infection and pregnancy. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, blood samples were collected from female students of childbearing age from three provinces in northwest Iran who studied at Maragheh University of Medical Sciences. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies were identified by ELISA and ELFA methods, and the relationship between Toxoplasma infection, demographic characteristics, and risk factors was evaluated. Results: The ELISA and ELFA serology test results for measuring IgG and IgM, were similar. One hundred cases (28.73%) were positive for Toxo IgG, and 6 cases (1.72%) were positive for Toxo IgM. The results showed that some risk factors, such as contact with cats and activities, such as agriculture or contact with soil, were significantly (P<0.05) related to T. gondii seropositivity. Conclusion: More than 70% of the childbearing-age female students studied in this investigation were susceptible to infection during pregnancy, and the performance of regular serological testing during pregnancy and health education about toxoplasmosis before and after gestation is essential to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis.