Toxocara spp. seroprevalence in pregnant women in Brasília, Brazil

Abstract

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The impact of gestational toxocariasis is an understudied topic on female reproductive health. We estimated anti-Toxocara IgG prevalence among pregnant women in Brasília, Brazil, and investigated the association of the infection with history of abortion and contact with pets. METHODS: Infection was diagnosed using ELISA with excretory/secretory antigens. Participant information was obtained via questionnaires. RESULTS: Of 311 pregnant women, 23 were anti-Toxocara IgG positive. Twenty-two percent of anti-Toxocara IgG-positive participants and 26% had previously miscarried. Previous contact with pets was associated with higher toxocariasis prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: A direct relationship between toxocariasis and contact with pets was observed, but there was no relationship with the miscarriage prevalence.

Keywords

• Toxocara spp
• Pregnancy
• Animal contact