Anti-Toxoplasma antibodies prevalence and associated risk factors among HIV patients

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxoplasmosis among HIV patients in Agaro Town Health Center of Jimma zone. Methods: Convenient sampling was used to collect blood samples from 135 patients attending anti-retroviral therapy from February to March 2015. Serum samples were tested for anti-Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) antibody by using latex agglutination test. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic and risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis. Results: Overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 80.7% (109/135, CI: 74.04– 87.36). In multivariate analysis significant association was observed between antiT. gondii seropositivity and raw meat consumption (OR: 3.514, CI: 1.167–10.581, P = 0.025), knowledge about toxoplasmosis (OR: 5.225, CI: 1.382, P = 0.015) and sex (OR: 4.023, CI: 1.382–19.762, P = 0.015). Conclusions: Immuno compromised patients showed high rate of seropositivity and thus, it is highly advisable to introduce routine anti-T. gondii antibodies serological screening test prior to ART commencement.