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Toxoplasma gondii antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for antibodies against *Toxoplasma gondii*, a parasite that can affect the immune system and sometimes cause illness in people with weakened defenses.

Quick summary

["Screening for past or current exposure to Toxoplasma infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14923-7
Short code
T gondii Ab Spec-aCnc
Synonyms
T gondii Ab Spec-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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 This Test Measures

The test detects two main types of antibodies—IgG and IgM—produced by your immune system in response to *Toxoplasma gondii*. IgG antibodies typically appear after an initial infection and can persist for years, while IgM antibodies indicate an active infection. This helps determine whether you’ve been exposed to the parasite at any time or if you’re currently infected.

Why It Matters for You

Having this test is important if you have a weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV, chemotherapy, or organ transplant), certain medical conditions (like lupus or diabetes), or if you’re pregnant. It helps doctors monitor exposure risk and guide treatment decisions.

When You Might Need This Test

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, or neurological issues (e.g., headaches, confusion). It’s also part of routine screening for people at higher risk of complications from Toxoplasma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is usually done in a lab and results are available within a few days.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Toxoplasma IgG/IgM Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Why might my results be positive?
A positive result for IgG antibodies suggests you’ve been exposed to Toxoplasma at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms. IgM antibodies alone may indicate an active infection, but confirmation with additional testing is often needed.
What does it mean if I’m pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, a positive IgG result means you’ve likely had the infection before, reducing the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis in your baby. If IgM is also positive, your doctor may recommend further evaluation to assess the need for treatment.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting. Home tests for Toxoplasma antibodies are not standard and are not covered by insurance for this purpose.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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