Toxoplasma Antibodies Blood Test

Toxoplasma IgM antibodies are produced by your immune system during an active or recent infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite commonly found in cat faeces, contaminated soil, and undercooked meat. These IgM antibodies typically appear within the first week or two of infection and usually decline over several months, though they can occasionally persist longer. The presence of Toxoplasma IgM antibodies indicates current or recent infection, which is particularly important to identify during pregnancy as toxoplasmosis can cause serious complications for the developing baby. This test is usually performed alongside Toxoplasma IgG to distinguish between recent infection and past immunity.

Toxoplasma IgG antibodies develop a few weeks after infection with Toxoplasma gondii and remain detectable for life, indicating past infection and immunity. Unlike IgM antibodies which signal recent infection, IgG antibodies show that your immune system has encountered the parasite before and has developed lasting protection against it. For women planning pregnancy or who are pregnant, the presence of Toxoplasma IgG without IgM is reassuring as it indicates you're already immune and the infection won't pose a risk to your baby. The presence of IgG alongside IgM, however, suggests a recent infection that requires further investigation and monitoring.