Toxoplasma gondii Antibody, Serum (IgG and IgM) – Immunoassay

This blood test checks for toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Your doctor may order it if you have symptoms of the infection, if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, or if your immune system is weakened, since the infection can cause serious complications in these situations.

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, muscle aches, or swollen lymph nodes, especially after recent travel to areas with high parasite risk (e.g., rural regions, areas with poor sanitation). It’s also used before pregnancy to check for exposure, as toxoplasmosis can pose risks to a developing fetus. Additionally, it may be part of monitoring for people with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to HIV or chemotherapy).

No special preparation is usually needed for this simple blood test, and you can generally eat and drink normally beforehand. Tell your provider about any medications or supplements you take, and let the technician know if you have ever felt faint during a blood draw or bruise easily.

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes. If you’re pregnant or have a history of blood clots, let your doctor know before the test.

Results show whether antibodies against the parasite are present in your blood. A positive IgG result usually means you were exposed at some point in the past, while IgM antibodies may suggest a recent or active infection. Your doctor will interpret the full pattern along with your symptoms, pregnancy status, and medical history.

Positive results for IgG antibodies suggest past exposure and immunity. IgM antibodies (often found alongside IgG) indicate recent infection. If both are present, it may mean active infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, so you likely haven’t been exposed recently. Consult your doctor for interpretation, as results can vary based on timing and health status.

Many healthy people never notice any symptoms, but some develop swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, fever, fatigue, headache, or a sore throat. In people with weakened immune systems or in babies infected before birth, toxoplasmosis can affect the eyes, brain, or other organs and may become serious without treatment.

Many people with toxoplasmosis have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, fever, or muscle pain. In severe cases, it can affect the eyes, brain, or heart. For people with weakened immune systems, symptoms can be more serious and may include confusion, seizures, or vision problems.