Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in North Indian blood donors: Implications for transfusion transmissible toxoplasmosis

IntroductionTransfusion transmitted Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) can result in significant clinical consequences in immunocompromised and multiply transfused patients, pregnant women and fetus etc. Anti-T. gondii seroprevalence, specifically IgM antibodies reflect the risk of transfusion transmission.MethodsFour hundred and ninety-three blood donors in a tertiary care hospital in North India were screened for IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).ResultsThe prevalence of IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies was 51.8% and 5% respectively. The prevalence was higher in females (M = 51.6%, F = 89.2%) and in replacement donors (replacement donors = 63.2%, voluntary donors = 33.5%).ConclusionThe donor population constitutes a significant risk of transfusion transmitted toxoplasmosis. Effective strategies are required to prevent transfusion transmitted toxoplasmosis.