Toxoplasma IgM
Clinical Background:
This is a serological assay used to detect IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii. It is the diagnostic test for recent infection in the immunocompetent. IgM antibodies are produced following infectio...
This is a serological assay used to detect IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii. It is the diagnostic test for recent infection in the immunocompetent. IgM antibodies are produced following infection and may remain detectable for several months. IgM is not reliably detected in reactivations, and for this reason PCR testing is preferred in the immunocompromised (e.g. toxoplasma PCR in CSF in suspected toxoplasma encephalitis). Toxoplasma IgM is not reliably detected in neonates with congenital infection. Reference laboratory testing is recommended in cases of suspected congenital infection where the mother (or infant) has tested IgG positive.
Test Details
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Discipline:
Microbiology
Microbiology
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Specimen Container Adult:
Clotted blood - Gold SST
Clotted blood - Gold SST
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Specimen Container Paediatric:
Clotted blood
Clotted blood
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Minimum Volume Adult:
5 ml
5 ml
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Minimum Volume Paediatric:
1 ml
1 ml
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Special Requirement:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
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Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours
Stable for up to 24 hours
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Transport Requirements:
Standard
Standard
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Add On Test:
Possible up to 5 days
Possible up to 5 days
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Quality Assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS)
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS)
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Reference Ranges:
None available
None available
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Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C