Toxoplasma antibodies in normal and complicated pregnancy.

Abstract

A total of 70 women with complicated pregnancy and 20 ones with normal pregnancy were selected. They were all RH positive and free from syphilis, brucellosis and malignany. Both groups were subjected to detection of anti-Toxoplasma antibodies levels by the indirect haemagglutination tests (IHAT-IgG) and by ELISA (IgG and IgM). The results showed that all controls (normal pregnancy) were IHA-IgG and ELISA-IgM negative. However, two of the controls (10%) were ELISA. IgG positive. As to the women with complicated pregnancy 68/70 or 97.1% were IHAT positive. When using ELISA, 57/70 or 81.4% were IgG positive and 42/70 or 60% were IgM positive. The results revealed a significant difference between the complicated cases and controls. The diagnosis of abortion, stillbirth, premature labour, or neonatal death due to Toxoplasma infection needs careful and laborious evaluation. The use of ELISA (IgG & IgM) is a must, as it is more sensitive and specific than IHAT.