Toxoplasmosis: serology analysis in pregnant women in primary care in Catolé do Rocha, Paraíba, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, which has a worldwide distribution, although it occurs more frequently in regions with tropical climates. Despite not being the main form of infection, congenital transmission can cause irreversible damage to the fetus and requires greater care and attention. Objective: To understand the serological profile for toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in the municipality of Catolé do Rocha, PB. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective study was conducted, analyzing 200 medical records of pregnant women treated at six Basic Health Units in the municipality from January 2021 to June 2022. The following variables were investigated: anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM serology, age, origin (rural or urban), pregnancies, gestational period, diagnostic method, and repetition of serology. The chi-square test (χ2) was calculated considering p<0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Out of the total pregnant women (n=200), 28.5% were seropositive for toxoplasmosis while 71.5% were susceptible to infection. Among the 143 susceptible women, only 9.1% repeated serology in subsequent trimesters of pregnancy. No statistical association was observed between serological profile and residential zone (p = 0.097) or between age group and increased seropositivity (p=0.426). A total of 4 pregnant women had inconclusive serology results, but did not undergo subsequent IgG avidity testing. Conclusions: Implementation of serological follow-up for susceptible pregnant women is necessary, and efforts to promote health, especially during prenatal care, should be intensified.

Key words: gestational toxoplasmosis; prenatal care; serology.