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Congenital toxoplasmosis occurs when a pregnant woman becomes infected with Toxoplasma gondii for the first time during pregnancy and passes the infection to her unborn child. It is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, commonly found in cat feces, contaminated soil, and undercooked meat. The Toxoplasma Antibody IgG test is the most important test for assessing maternal exposure and infection risk during pregnancy.
Congenital toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii when a pregnant woman becomes infected for the first time during pregnancy. The parasite is commonly found in cat feces, contaminated soil, undercooked or raw meat, and unwashed fruits and vegetables. When a woman who has never been exposed to Toxoplasma gondii becomes infected during pregnancy, the parasite can cross the placenta and infect the developing baby, leading to serious complications including eye damage, brain abnormalities, hearing loss, and developmental delays.
The Toxoplasma Antibody IgG test is the most important test for assessing congenital toxoplasmosis risk because it detects IgG antibodies that indicate whether a woman has been exposed to Toxoplasma gondii. This test is essential for pregnant women or those planning pregnancy, as it helps determine if the infection is new or established. A negative IgG result means no previous exposure, making the woman susceptible to primary infection during pregnancy, while a positive result suggests past exposure and lower risk. Healthcare providers may also order IgM antibody testing to help determine the timing of infection, which is critical for assessing transmission risk to the baby.
You should get tested if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, especially if you have cats, handle raw meat regularly, garden frequently, or have experienced flu-like symptoms during early pregnancy. Women who work with animals, live on farms, or have occupations involving soil exposure should consider testing before conception. Testing is particularly important if you develop symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, or fatigue during pregnancy, as these could indicate a new Toxoplasma infection that poses risk to your baby.
What this means
Your test came back negative, meaning no IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii were detected in your blood. This indicates you have not been exposed to this parasite and do not have immunity, so taking precautions is important, especially if you're pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Recommended actions
Have someone else handle cat litter or wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly afterward
Cook all meat to safe internal temperatures and wash fruits and vegetables well
Wear gloves when gardening or handling soil where cats may have been
Consider retesting during each trimester if pregnant, or if you develop symptoms
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