Determination of Antibodies (IgG, IgM) against Toxoplasma gondii in Patients with Cancer

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was determination of antibodies (IgG, IgM) against Toxoplasma in malignant patients in order to refer the patients on time to the physician for treatment.

Methods: This study was carried out on 252 malignant patients and 252 healthy normal subjects (as control) obtained from Shafa Hospital and Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (Iran-Zamin), in Ahwaz city. Patient's information was recorded in a questionnaire before sampling. Serum samples of patients were examined for IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA technique using Trinity kits.

Results: The results of this study revealed the presence of Toxoplasma antibodies in 114 (45.2%) cases of patients who were positive for Toxoplasma IgG antibodies, and 26 (10.3%) cases were confirmed to be positive for Toxoplasma IgM antibodies and also 17 (6.7%) of cases had both IgG and IgM antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. In control group 92 (36.5%) cases and 15 (6%) cases revealed seropositive for IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. There were no significant differences between sex, close contact with cat, living region, chemotherapy, and seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis in patients. Comparing the age groups, the highest seropositive rate showed in the age of 51 years or higher, and their rates had tendency to increase with age in both groups. No seropositivity significant relationship was found between patients and control group.

Conclusion: According to the prevalence of positive cases in these patients, it is necessary to examine the patients for toxoplasmosis before, during and after chemotherapy.