Toxoplasmosis in Saudi Arabia

Objectives: The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of, and risk factors for, Toxoplasmosis in Saudi Arabia, and to study the geographic distribution of the disease. Methods: A stratified multi-stage random cluster design sampling was carried out and a statistical sample was selected defining primary sampling units in different regions of Saudi Arabia. The sampling plan incorporated metropolitan and non-metropolitan communities. Survey members were interviewed and examined in the field. The total response rate was 96%. Blood samples were obtained and subjected to toxoplasma double-sandwich immunoenzymatic assay, capturing the levels of IgA, IgG and IgM antibodies. Results: The overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis by serological screening was 32.7%. Cats in the neighborhood increased the risk of toxoplasmosis among children whilst socio-economic status did not play a role in the transmission of toxoplasmosis. The prevalence of chorioretinal scars suggestive of toxoplasmosis in the general population was 1%, and 2.9% among toxoplasma positive individuals. Conclusion: Systemic toxoplasmosis is common in Saudi Arabia. One out of 3 individuals showed evidence of exposure to the protozoa. Systemic toxoplasmosis was found among 32.7% of the population. Retinochoroiditic scar suggestive of toxoplasmosis was found among 2.9% of the cases with systemic toxoplasmosis.