Useful For:
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection of humans caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. The diagnosis of toxoplasma infection in the neonate is based on persistent or rising IgG titers and/or a positive IgM antibody at any titer after birth in the absence of a placental leak. Both IgG and IgM antibodies are produced in response to an acute infection. IgG titers appear around the second week of infection and usually reach a maximum titer after several weeks. The presence of Toxoplasma IgM specific antibodies usually is indicative of current or recent infection; however, IgM specific antibodies are known to last one year or more.
Methodology: Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
Specimen Requirements: 1 yellow-top SST tube (minimum: 0.1 mL of serum). Centrifuge SST 30 minutes after draw. Refrigerate specimen after collection.
NOTE:
If suspected exposure, send convalescent specimen in 14-21 days.
Gross hemolysis, lipemia and microbial contamination may affect results.
Analytical Time: 3 days
Days Set Up: Tuesday, Friday
CPT Information:
86777 –