2057. Toxocara canis, IgG antibodies

The test detects IgG antibodies to Toxocara canis, the causative agent of toxocariasis. The presence of IgG antibodies to Toxocara canis indicates a current or past parasitic infestation. Serological diagnostics is the primary method for laboratory confirmation of the infection.

Toxocara canis is a roundworm (nematode) that parasitizes the intestines of dogs. Humans become infected by ingesting the parasite's eggs, which are found in soil or on animal fur. The main routes of transmission are contact with contaminated soil, animal fur, or poor hygiene after working with soil.

In humans, the larvae do not develop into adults but migrate to various organs, causing toxocariasis with various clinical manifestations:

• visceral form – fever, abdominal pain, enlarged liver and spleen, cough, eosinophilia;
• ocular form – visual impairment, eye inflammation;
• neurological form – headache, seizures;
• latent form – general weakness, allergic reactions, skin rashes.

Serological diagnosis is the primary method of laboratory confirmation of infection. However, IgG testing does not accurately differentiate current infection from past or chronic infection, as antibodies to Toxocara canis may remain positive even after recovery. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical data and medical history. A negative result does not rule out infection, as the immune response and antibody concentration vary depending on the location and number of helminths.

• Individuals with clinical suspicion of toxocariasis have characteristic symptoms – lymphadenopathy, enlarged liver (hepatomegaly), bronchitis or bronchial asthma of unknown origin, as well as urticaria visip.
• For patients with a similar medical history – geophagia (the habit of eating soil) or professions / occupations that transmit contact with soil.
• For differential diagnosis of toxocariasis and other helminthoses or illness with pronounced eosinophilia and leukemoid reaction of the eosinophilic type.
• Within the framework of epidemiological research among risk groups.

• Venous blood

In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules: