Human Toxocariasis in patients with Leukemia: The First Seroepidemiological Study in Egypt

Background: Toxocariasis is a neglected zoonotic parasitic disease with global distribution, yet data from Egypt remain limited, particularly in immunocompromised patients such as those with leukemia. Toxocara larval migration may cause severe complications in this population.
Objective: This study aimed to determine Toxocara seroprevalence, associated risk factors, and its impact on hematological as well as the biochemical parameters among leukemic patients.
Methods: This case-control study included 200 participants: 100 leukemia patients and 100 healthy controls. Sociodemographic data were collected via questionnaire. Anti-Toxocara canis IgG antibodies were detected by ELISA, and biochemical tests (liver, renal, glucose & lipid profile) along with complete blood counts were assessed.
Results: Overall seroprevalence was 10.5%, significantly higher in leukemia patients (15%) than controls (6%). Infection was most frequent in acute lymphocytic leukemia (20.9%), followed by acute myeloid leukemia (16%). Significant risk factors included male gender, pediatric age, soil contact, and pet contact. Infected leukemia patients showed elevated WBCs and liver enzymes (ALT & AST) with reduced albumin, hemoglobin, and platelets compared to seronegative counterparts.
Conclusion: Leukemia patients demonstrated significantly higher Toxocara seropositivity, with pediatric age, male sex, and environmental exposures as key risk factors. Infection adversely affected hematological and biochemical profiles, highlighting the need for preventive measures and screening in immunocompromised groups.