Analysis of Preventable Risk Factors for Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Pregnant Women: Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasma gondii (TG) is a parasitic protozoon that may cause miscarriages or birth defects if the infection occurs during pregnancy. The study’s aim was to evaluate the risk factors associated with TG infection in pregnant women. Materials: Medical charts for all 273 pregnant women with suspected TG infection consecutively admitted to the Hospital of Warsaw between 2019 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The presumptive TG diagnosis was verified by a serologic assessment of IgM and IgG titers, and IgG affinity tests. Results: The median age was 32 years (range: 19–42 years). The diagnosis of primary TG infection was confirmed in 74/273 (27.1%) women. In 114/273 (41.8%) there was evidence of past infection. In 71/273 (26%) women, an infection was excluded. In 172/273 (62%) women the recommended testing for other infectious diseases putting fetus development at risk was performed correctly. Logistic regression model analysis revealed that living in rural areas and eating raw meat were independent factors associated with increased risk of TG infection during pregnancy (OR 2.89, 95% CI: 1.42–5.9, p = 0.004; and OR 2.07, 95% CI: 1.03–4.18, p = 0.04, respectively). Conclusions: The independent risk factors for TG infection during pregnancy include living in rural areas and eating raw meat. The physician’s educational role here is crucial for the efficient prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis.