Toxoplasma - serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of antibodies to Toxoplasma (toxoplasmosis)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ Toxoplasma IgG testing will be performed on all requests for Toxoplasma serology; IgG and IgM testing is only performed when indicated

○ Avidity testing will be performed if the patient is pregnant and has reactive IgG and IgM

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood) (min volume 2 mL)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood (at least 2mL if infant)
○ neonates: a minimum of 0.5 mL; if ordered as part of a TORCH screen, 2.5 mL of blood is sufficient for all serology tests

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 5 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4635

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) ASAP after collection.

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will perform Toxoplasmosis IgG testing in house and will refer the original specimen to PHOL for IgM and avidity testing.