Detection of T. gondii infection in blood donors in Alexandria, Egypt, using serological and molecular strategies
Background Toxoplasmosis is a widespread disease caused by the opportunistic parasite Toxoplasma gondii, with variable overall prevalence according to the different geographical areas. Blood donors pose as possible contributors for transfer of infection. Objective The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of exposure to Toxoplasma in blood donors using sensitive techniques in a cross sectional study. Materials and methods An aggregate of 150 blood donors from the blood donation center of Alexandria University participated in this study. The blood samples were tested for the presence of T. gondii immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibody and target gene B1 using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and real time PCR, respectively. Results Of 150 participants, 65.3% tested were positive for anti Toxoplasma IgG, and 10% showed parasitemia as B1 gene was successfully amplified in nine seropositive samples and in six seronegative samples. Conclusion The recorded IgG seropositivity in this selected group of individuals may be considered an indication of the general prevalence of toxoplasmosis in Alexandria. Detected parasitemia using real time PCR draws attention to the possibility of transmission through blood transfusion even from seronegative donors and emphasizes the importance of specialized Toxoplasma DNA screening before donation of blood.