Toxoplasma Test

This test checks for antibodies to a parasite known as toxoplasma in the blood.

Who is a candidate for the test?

This test is often used to check pregnant women for toxoplasmosis, one of the so-called toxoplasma infection, also called toxoplasmosis \ \other infections, such as hepatitis B, syphilis, and herpes zoster, the virus that causes chickenpox \ \ rubella, the virus that causes German measles\ \ cytomegalovirus, or CMV\ \ herpes simplex virus, the cause of genital herpes \ ',CAPTION,'TORCH Infections');" onmouseout="return nd();">TORCH infections that can be passed to the fetus. If antibodies to toxoplasma develop during pregnancy, this may indicate the presence of a new case of toxoplasmosis. This infection may cause birth defects in an unborn child when a mother catches it during pregnancy. If the woman has antibodies before pregnancy, it usually means the baby will be protected from the infection. This test is also done on a baby's blood to help diagnose toxoplasmosis in the newborn.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein on the forearm or hand. The blood is taken to the laboratory and tested to see if there are toxoplasma antibodies in it.

What is involved in preparation for the test?

Specific instructions are available from a healthcare provider. Generally, no preparation is required.

What do the test results mean?

The amount of antibodies present is important:

Author:David T. Moran, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Evans, Gwen, BA
Edit Date:05/01/00
Reviewer:Adam Brochert, MD
Date Reviewed:09/04/01