Toxoplasmosis (IgG/IgM)
Tests for antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, to determine current or past infection status.
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What this test measures
The Toxoplasmosis (IgG/IgM) test measures two types of antibodies in the blood that the immune system produces in response to infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite. IgG antibodies generally indicate past exposure and immunity, while IgM antibodies indicate recent infection.
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that infects most species of warm-blooded animals, including humans, and causes the disease toxoplasmosis. In the human host, the parasites form tissue cysts, most commonly in skeletal muscle, myocardium, brain, and eyes, and these cysts may remain throughout the life of the host. During infection, IgM antibodies may appear earlier and decline more rapidly than IgG antibodies and are frequently the first class of antibodies detected after primary infection. However, they may persist for months or years after infection, and only negative results in the vast majority of cases exclude acute infection.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals who have been exposed to cats or cat litter boxes and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, as cats are the primary hosts for the Toxoplasma gondii parasite.
- People who regularly consume undercooked or raw meat, particularly pork, lamb, or venison, which can harbor tissue cysts of the parasite.
- Pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy, since maternal infection during pregnancy can potentially be transmitted to the developing baby and may cause serious complications.
- Immunocompromised patients, including those with HIV, cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients, who are at higher risk for severe complications from toxoplasmosis.
- Individuals experiencing unexplained swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, or persistent fatigue that could be consistent with toxoplasmosis infection.
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Individuals can eat and drink normally before their appointment, and no fasting is necessary. There are no medication restrictions for this test.
Sample Type
The test requires a simple blood draw from a vein in the arm. A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein, typically in the inner elbow area, to collect a blood sample.
Collection
The blood collection typically takes just a few minutes and causes minimal discomfort. After the sample is collected, a small bandage will be applied to the puncture site, and normal activities can be resumed immediately.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days after the sample reaches the laboratory. Results will be securely delivered through the patient portal or as directed during the ordering process.
Understanding your results
The test measures two types of antibodies: if the level of IgM antibodies is raised, the individual likely became infected in the recent past or currently, while if the level of IgG antibodies is raised, they became infected sometime in the past. Understanding both results together helps determine infection timing and immune status.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (IgG) | Negative: <7.2 IU/mL; Positive: ≥8.8 IU/mL | Values between 7.2-8.7 IU/mL may be considered equivocal |
| Adults (IgM) | Negative: <8 AU/mL; Positive: ≥10 AU/mL | Values between 8-9.9 AU/mL may be considered equivocal |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Negative results for both antibodies typically mean the individual has likely never had a toxoplasma infection and may be susceptible to future infection. Most people with healthy immune systems who are infected with Toxoplasma gondii do not know they have it because they do not have any symptoms. Negative results may also occur in very early infection before antibodies have developed or in severely immunocompromised individuals who cannot produce adequate antibody responses.
What does a “High” result mean?
Positive IgG antibody results generally indicate past exposure and immunity, with detectable levels of Toxoplasma antibody indicating exposure to Toxoplasma gondii. Positive IgM results can indicate recent infection if testing occurs within one or two weeks of infection, while positive IgG results after several weeks suggest current or past infection. However, both antibody types can persist for extended periods, so positive results should always be interpreted by healthcare providers in the context of symptoms and clinical history.
Privacy & confidentiality
All toxoplasmosis test results are kept strictly confidential and HIPAA-compliant. Results are not shared with insurance companies or added to insurance explanation of benefits. No doctor visit is required to order this test, and results are securely delivered only to the individual who ordered the testing.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
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$29May show elevated white blood cells or other changes that can accompany infections
View TestHIV Test
$85Important for immunocompromised individuals who are at higher risk for severe toxoplasmosis
View TestHCG Pregnancy Test
$39Essential for women of reproductive age since maternal infection can affect pregnancy outcomes
View TestCMV Test
$59Another common infection that can cause similar symptoms and complications in pregnancy and immunocompromised patients
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This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.