Toxoplasma Test
Alternate Names : Toxoplasma Serology, Toxoplasma Antibody Titer
This test checks for antibodies to a parasite known as toxoplasma in the blood.
Who is a candidate for the test?
This test is often used to check pregnant women for toxoplasmosis, one of the so-called TORCH infections that can be passed to the fetus. If antibodies to toxoplasma develop during pregnancy, this may indicate the presence of a new case of toxoplasmosis. This infection may cause birth defects in an unborn child when a mother catches it during pregnancy. If the woman has antibodies before pregnancy, it usually means the baby will be protected from the infection. This test is also done on a baby's blood to help diagnose toxoplasmosis in the newborn.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein on the forearm or hand. The blood is taken to the laboratory and tested to see if there are toxoplasma antibodies in it.
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