Seroprevalence and hematological alterations associated with toxoplasmosis in women of reproductive age in Kirkuk province, Iraq

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii infection poses a significant public health risk in women of childbearing age because of the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcome and possible hematological changes. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and determine the modifications of hematological and iron status in pregnant and non-pregnant women in Kirkuk Province, Iraq. This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and late June 2025and included 152 women (106 pregnant and 46 non-pregnants). Blood samples were examined using anti-Toxoplasma IgG/IgM ELISA, complete blood count (CBC) and iron biomarkers (serum iron, TIBC, transferrin, and ferritin). The levels of seropositivity higher in non-pregnant women (IgG: 41.3%, IgM: 34.8%) compared to pregnant women (IgG: 20.0%, IgM: 21.0%). Hematological anomalies, such as microcytic anemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytopenia were also observed in seropositive women. The patterns of iron deficiency particularly evident among Igm-positive cases. These outcomes are significant to the necessity to combine serological and hematological screening into the prenatal care plan to alleviate maternal and fetal complications.