What it measures
Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite spread through cat faeces, soil and undercooked meat. IgG antibodies show infection at some point; IgM antibodies can point to a more recent one, though they can last for months.
Why people test it
- Checked before or during pregnancy, as a new infection in pregnancy can affect the baby.
- Tested when there are swollen glands or flu-like symptoms with no clear cause.
- Checked in people with a weakened immune system, in whom the infection can become serious.
Typical range
Reported as positive, negative or equivocal for each antibody type. Methods and cut-offs vary between labs, and your report shows how the lab reads the result.
Finger-prick or vein?
Offered as a vein draw only.