Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in North Indian blood donors: implications for transfusion transmissible toxoplasmosis

Abstract

Introduction: Transfusion transmitted Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) can result in significant clinical consequences in immunocompromised and multiply transfused patients, pregnant women and fetus etc. Anti-T. gondii seroprevalence, specifically IgM antibodies reflect the risk of transfusion transmission.

Methods: Four hundred and ninety-three blood donors in a tertiary care hospital in North India were screened for IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: The prevalence of IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies was 51.8% and 5% respectively. The prevalence was higher in females (M=51.6%, F=89.2%) and in replacement donors (replacement donors=63.2%, voluntary donors=33.5%).

Conclusion: The donor population constitutes a significant risk of transfusion transmitted toxoplasmosis. Effective strategies are required to prevent transfusion transmitted toxoplasmosis.