Background: Primary infection with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy can be transmitted to the fetus and
may cause serious complications.
Objective: The present study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies in
women of child-bearing age in Ilam, Iran.
Subjects and Methods: The present cross-sectional research was conducted among 797 women of
childbearing age who were referred to laboratories in Ilam, in the west of Iran. Inclusion criteria for
participants were being a woman of child-bearing age, referred to one of four laboratories for routine
check-up in different areas of Ilam city, and willing to participate. A venous blood sample was collected
from each participant. Separated sera were examined using ELISA for measurement of anti-Toxoplasma
IgG, and IgM.
Results: The study included a total number of 797 women of child-bearing age with mean age of 29.92±7.23
years. The total seroprevalence of T. gondii, as measured by IgG level was 23.46% (187 women), of which
0.6% were seropositive for IgM. No significant relationship was recorded between seroprevalence of
Toxoplasma antibodies and education level, occupation or residence, but age was significantly associated
with toxoplasmosis (P=0.001).
Conclusion: These results indicate that most women of child–bearing age (76%) in Ilam are susceptible
to infection and should be warned against the risk factors for toxoplasmosis to minimize exposure to T.
gondii. Prenatal screening is recommended to help identify susceptible women to T. gondii.