Simultaneous serological screening for congenital cytomegalovirus and toxoplasma infection

Sera from mother and baby matched by computer, were examined for evidence of infection with toxoplasma and cytomegalovirus (CMV) in a serological screening programme, based on simultaneous enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays of immunoglobulin G (IgG-ELISA) from a single master dilution of serum. There was evidence of primary CMV infection in 23 of 4717 pregnancies (13 by seroconversion in the last two trimesters: 10 by detection of specific IgM at antenatal booking) and primary toxoplasma infection in 10 of 4548 pregnancies (4 by seroconversion; 6 by detection of specific IgM). Detection of seroconversion depended on matching antenatal booking and cord specimen data. The best matching efficiency that could be achieved was 83%. The effectiveness of this approach to identifying neonates at risk of developmental abnormalities is discussed.