PREVALENCE OF INFECTION WITH TOXOPLASMA GONDII AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN TIRANA

Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite. The infection produces a wide range of clinical syndromes in humans, land and sea mammals, and various bird species. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence toxoplasmosis among pregnant women of Tirana district. This is a retrospective study including pregnant women who presented at laboratory of the directorate of public health in Tirana district for routine examinations of pregnancy during the period 2011-2013. Serum samples were tested for both IgG and IgMT. gondii antibodies by using enzyme-linked flourescence assay (ELFA). A questionnaire containing socio-demographic and behavioral habits was de-signed and completed for individuals. A total of 247 pregnant women were studied. The average age of these women was 27.3 years and the average gestational age was 24.5 weeks. Among these women, 72 were seropositive for IgG antibodies 29.1%, 95% CI: 23.5?35.2%) (fig.1). Six women were positive for IgM antibodies (2.4%, 95% CI 0.9?5.2%). Preventing toxoplasmosis is particularly important in seronegative immunocompromised patients and in pregnant women.