An inexpensive, accurate test that detects infections with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii can provide results within 30 minutes from a finger-prick in a doctor's office or within an hour from a small blood sample tested in a local medical laboratory. The new test can also identify false positives in other types of commercial diagnostic tests for toxoplasmosis, providing swift reassurance to uninfected pregnant women and their doctors and facilitating timely interventions to protect a fetus against toxoplasmosis in acutely infected pregnant mothers. These findings appear in a study, led by toxoplasmosis specialist Rima McLeod, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Science and Pediatrics at the University of Chicago, published May 23, 2024, in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.
By using this approach and test to monitor pregnant women monthly for Toxoplasma infections, beginning before or very early in pregnancy, we can help prevent infections of their babies. This test can also contribute to solving the problem of false positives from other Toxoplasma tests, inexpensively, which can help reassure pregnant women and their doctors." Rima McLeod, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Science and Pediatrics, University of Chicago Early detection of T.
gondii in previously uninfected pregnant women is key to limiting the damage of toxoplasmosis in unborn babies. "Without proper diagnosis and medications, acute toxoplasmosis in the fetus can be lethal or lead to premature bir.
