Toxoplasma IgM
Toxoplasma IgM
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a parasite that causes an infection called Toxoplasmosis. T. gondii can be transmitted to individuals if they:
· Eat contaminated or undercooked meats such as lamb, pork, venison, etc.
· Eat unwashed fruits and vegetables that are grown in contaminated soils
· Drink contaminated water
· Handle contaminated cat litter
· Have contact with contaminated substances (such as sandboxes, soil, etc.)
· Are born to an infected mother
The Toxoplasma IgM test detects IgM antibodies against T. gondii in the blood. These antibodies are produced within a week’s span after the onset of T. gondii early infection. In healthy adults, the infection usually goes unnoticed. In immunocompromised individuals, however, T. gondii infection can result in brain damage and other serious issues. Furthermore, if a pregnant woman develops the virus, the growing foetus may suffer serious complications such as miscarriage
Symptoms of toxoplasmosis
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever
Fatigue
Headache
Body aches
Sore throat
Who should get tested?
This test is recommended for individuals who are/have:
Pregnant
Weak immune system, with flu-like symptoms
Signs and symptoms of toxoplasmosis
Unborn baby in an infected mother (amniotic fluid to be tested
Test preparation
No special preparations are required for the test. However, please tell your healthcare provider about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and medical conditions that you take or have before taking the test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
|
Reference range of IgM antibody (IU/mL) |
Interpretation |
Remarks |
|
<10.00 |
Non Reactive |
No IgM antibody detected |
|
>10.00 |
Reactive |
IgM antibody detected |
Deviation from the normal levels
· A non-reactive/negative test result does not always rule out T. gondii infection. Patients are advised to retest three to four weeks following the initial test.
· Equivocal may be indicative of low IgM levels. Repeat testing is advised for IgG antibodies after 3 to 4 weeks to confirm the infection.
Reactive results may be indicative of an active or recent infection
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for Toxoplasma IgM test?
The test results for Toxoplasma IgM are generally available within 2 – 3 working days after the sample collection. However, it may also take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with Toxoplasma IgM test?
No, there are no risks associated with Toxoplasma IgM test. It is a simple blood test and may involve negligible risk such as feeling a slight sting or bruise at the site of needle insertion. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a couple of hours. Rarely, the site can also become infected
What is the procedure involved in sample collection?
The healthcare professional inserts a small needle into a vein in the arm to collect a few mL of blood sample in a sterile test tube. For easy collection of the blood sample, he may tie an elastic band to your upper arm or may ask you to make a fist
Is toxoplasmosis a contagious disease?
No. It is spread through consuming contaminated food or drinks or by handling infected objects. However, pregnant or lactating women may pass the infection to the baby
Can I get re-infected again if I have been previously infected with T. gondii?
No, not necessarily. Once infected, the body produces antibodies such as IgG, which may provide lifelong protection against the infection. Individuals with impaired or weaker immune systems, on the other hand, may become re-infected with the illness
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