Beckman Coulter Access Toxo IgG Reagent, 100 Determinations, 2 x 50 tests

Specifications

Brand: Access®

Manufacturer: Beckman Coulter

Country of Origin: France

Application: Reagent

For Use With: For Access 2 Immunoassay System, UniCel® DxI 600, DxI 800 Access Immunoassay System, UniCel® DxC 600i, DxC 660i, DxC 680i, DxC 860i, DxC 880i Synchron® Access® Clinical System

Form: Liquid

Number of Tests: 2 X 50 Tests

Sample Type: Serum Sample

Storage Requirements: Requires Refrigeration

Test Name: Toxo IgG

Test Type: Immunology / Serology Test

Intended Use

The Access Toxo IgG assay is a paramagnetic-particle, chemiluminescent immunoassay for the qualitative and quantitative determination of IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in human serum using the Access Immunoassay Systems. The Access Toxo IgG assay aids in the diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection and may be used to assess the immune status of pregnant women.

Summary and Explanation

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan capable of infecting many species of mammals and birds. Human infection is common worldwide, although prevalence varies with age and geographic location.

Primary Toxoplasma infections in adults and children past the neonatal stage are usually inapparent, although fever, lymphadenitis, and other symptoms are seen in a small percentage of areas. Generally, once the host develops antibodies, the infection enters a dormant phase, with viable organisms remaining in the tissues. Thus in toxoplasmosis, although antibody is protective, it cannot eliminate the cystic stage: as a result, the overt clinical disease is rare. Primary infection just prior to or during pregnancy may lead to fetal death or serious congenital abnormalities, particularly brain and Central Nervous System (CNS) damage. Numerous studies have shown that the presence of maternal IgG against Toxoplasma, determined prior to pregnancy, protects the fetus against infection by the parasite.

In contrast to the benign infection seen in the general population, immunocompromised patients may experience severe Toxoplasma disease with CNS involvement. Toxoplasmosis is of great importance in the management of AIDS patients. Various studies indicate 3–38% of AIDS patients may develop cerebral toxoplasmosis from the reactivation of a quiescent viable parasitic focus, or cyst.

Specific diagnosis of Toxoplasma infection is dependent on isolation of the parasite which is difficult and rarely achieved. Serological confirmation of antibodies to Toxoplasma is indicative of exposure to the parasite and is a means of diagnosis and follow-up. Testing of specific antibody isotypes to Toxoplasma gondii can provide information as to when the infection was acquired. This allows a recent infection to be detected and the appropriate prophylactic and therapeutic measures to be taken.