Serological Detection of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies Using Lateral Flow Device

Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.

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Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Basrah, Basrah, 61004, IRAQ

10.21608/ejmm.2025.374464.1561

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasmosis, caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is a parasitic disease affecting warm-blooded animals, including humans. It poses severe risks to newborns and immunocompromised individuals. Detecting specific IgG and IgM antibodies used for diagnosis of suspected toxoplasmosis. Subjective: This study aimed to assess T. gondii infection prevalence among female students at the University of Basrah, focusing on those with direct cat contact. Methodology: Using Lateral Flow Immunoassay, IgG and IgM antibodies were detected to identify infections. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2024, involving 100 female participants with cat exposure, with a mean age of 22 years old. Data on age, cat type, glove use, and symptoms were collected via a questionnaire. Results: The results revealed 9 (18%) positive cases (IgM-/IgG+) and 41 (82%) negative cases among exposed individuals. Over 80% did not wear masks and gloves during cat litter cleaning. Common clinical symptoms included headache with vision disorders (34%), and headache with fatigue (30%). The remaining 25% were asymptomatic. All infected individuals had cat contact or exposure to infection sources, with stray cats being the most common associated type. Conclusions: All patients had a history of contact with cats or other potential sources of T. gondii infection, with stray cats identified as the most common type associated with these infections.

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