Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Its Association with ABO/Rh Blood Groups among Pregnant Women Attending Yafran Hospital, Libya

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread parasitic protozoan with significant public health implications, particularly for pregnant women due to the risk of congenital transmission. Data on seroprevalence and associated risk factors, including potential links with ABO/Rh blood groups, are scarce in Libya. Objective: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii (IgG and IgM) among pregnant women in Yafran, Libya, and to investigate its association with ABO/Rh blood groups and demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2025 at Yafran General Hospital. A total of 80 pregnant women were enrolled. Serum samples were tested for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using a commercial rapid immunochromatographic test (Cassette Test). ABO/Rh blood typing was performed using standard slide agglutination methods with monoclonal antisera. Data on demographic characteristics and potential risk factors were collected via a structured questionnaire. Results: The overall seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG was 26.25% (21/80), while IgM seropositivity was 1.25% (1/80), indicating a low rate of recent infection. Analysis by blood group showed the highest IgG seropositivity rates in women with O- (75%, 3/4) and B- (100%, 1/1) blood types, though sample sizes for these groups were small. The most common blood types, A+ and O+, showed seropositivity rates of 27.3% and 24.2%, respectively. No statistically significant associations were found between seropositivity and age, cat ownership, or history of miscarriage (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study reveals a moderate seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Yafran, Libya. The observed variations in seropositivity across different ABO/Rh blood groups warrant further investigation with larger sample sizes. The findings underscore the need for enhanced prenatal screening and health education programs focused on toxoplasmosis prevention in this region.