Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among Children with Beta-thalassemia Major and its Effect on Selected Immune Parameters

Abstract

Objective: antibodies and the immunological impact in children with β-thalassemia major. Methods: immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgM antibodies by rapid tests, ELISA, and VIDAS, while cytokine levels were measured by ELISA. After serological testing, participants were classified into 4 groups: thalassemia + parasite, thalassemia only, parasite only, and healthy control. Data were analysed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p<0.05), with results expressed as mean ± standard error for statistical comparison between study groups. Results: (p<0.05), whereas IFN-γ (p>0.12). Conclusion: than healthy controls. Infection was associated with significant alterations in immune parameters, indicating increased immune dysregulation in these patients.