Investigation of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody seropositivity and possible risk factors in women with abortion or stillbirth history in Kars, Turkey

Bahtım O. Karacali, Neriman Mor

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that can cause serious outcomes, especially during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital abnormalities. This study was designed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and explore associated risk factors among women with a history of abortion or stillbirth in Kars, Turkey. A total of 274 women were included -137 with a history of abortion or stillbirth, and 137 healthy controls. Participants completed a 26-item questionnaire assessing possible risk factors for infection. Serum samples were analysed using the micro-ELISA method. In the patient group, IgG and IgM seropositivity rates were 32.8% and 1.5%, respectively while in the control group, IgG and IgM were 35% and 0.7% respectively. Overall, the prevalences  of IgG and IgM in the two groups were 33.9% and 1.1% respectively. The difference between the groups was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Significant associations were found in the patient group between seropositivity and factors such as educational level, number of previous pregnancies, abortions, and preterm births, and the source of  drinking water (p < 0.05). In the control group, income level, feeding cats in the garden, and consumption of raw milk were significantly associated with seropositivity (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant association was found between T. gondii seropositivity and a history of abortion or stillbirth when compared with the control group. The findings also reveal a relatively high seroprevalence of T. gondii in the region and suggest that several sociodemographic and behavioral factors may contribute to exposure to the parasite. Therefore, public health interventions tailored to local hygiene and dietary habits are  recommended.

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References

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