Toxoplasma IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of antibodies against the parasite *Toxoplasma gondii*, which can indicate past or current infection. Antibodies are the body’s immune response to exposure to this organism.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to Toxoplasma, which can affect immune systems differently depending on health status."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90764-2
- Short code
- HEDIS 2019 Toxoplasma Ab
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2019 Toxoplasma Ab
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Toxoplasma IgG antibodies are part of your immune system’s long-term response to the parasite. If detected, it suggests you’ve had exposure to Toxoplasma at some point, though it doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. These antibodies can remain in your blood for years after recovery.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or muscle pain that could be linked to a Toxoplasma infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV, chemotherapy, or other conditions). It’s also used in screening for pregnant women to check for potential risks to the fetus.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested in a lab using an immunoassay method to detect IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma. Results are reported as either positive or negative, or sometimes as titers (a measure of antibody level), but specific reference ranges vary by lab.
What Are the Possible Results?
A positive result means your blood contains detectable IgG antibodies, indicating past exposure to Toxoplasma. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies at the time of testing, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or your immune system cleared the infection quickly. Follow-up testing may be needed if symptoms persist.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Toxoplasma IgG antibodies are important for diagnosing past infection, which can be critical for people with weakened immune systems. While IgG alone doesn’t confirm active infection, it helps guide further testing or monitoring. In pregnancy, a positive result may prompt additional evaluation to assess risk to the baby.
Short name
IgG Antibody to Toxoplasma
Frequently asked questions
Could I have Toxoplasma without this test being positive?
What if my test is positive but I don’t feel sick?
Can I get Toxoplasma from food or water?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy