Seroprevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis in a major referral eye center in Southwest, Nigeria

Objective: To assess the prevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis by seroprevalence of Toxoplasma (T.) gondii among people attending the referral eye center in Southwest Nigeria, and to identify associated risk factors and socio-economic determinants related to ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: A systematic questionnaire was used and blood samples of 3 mL each were taken. Serological tests of anti- T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were performed using the ELISA kit. Eye examinations were performed. Results: T. gondii antibodies were detected in 52.6% of the tested patients. A total of 409 respondents were surveyed. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis increased with age which was statistically significant ( P =0.001). The highest prevalence was found in farmers (69.2%, P =0.011). The overall prevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis within the study area was 1.7%. Conclusions: The high seroprevalence recorded in this study is suggestive of the endemic nature of the disease. Awareness among the populace about Toxoplasma infection is imperative in understanding the epidemiology of the infection.