Study of latent Toxoplasma gondii role in level of testosterone, DHEA, cortisol and prolactin hormones of young persons

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis influences the behavior and personality of infected persons. Possible mechanisms for these psychic disorders include its effect on dopamine and on hormone levels. In the present research, the effect of latent toxoplasmosis on testosterone, DHEA, cortisol and prolactin hormones in the infected and noninfected individuals was examined. A total of 215 plasma sample were examined for IgG and IgM anti-Toxoplasma antibody, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol and prolactin levels. In addition the prevalence of hirsutism, acne and alopecia also evaluated in individuals. Serological analysis confirmed that 61 men (28.37%) and 58 women (26.97%) were sero-positive. A statistically significant correlation between toxoplasmosis and testosterone and cortisol increase were observed but there were no significant differences between infected and noninfected individuals in level of prolactin and DHEA. There were significant differences in frequency of allopcy, acne and hirsutism between two groups. Because of these hormones have though helps in management of stress and human behavior and personality so the direct correlation between toxoplasmosis and psychological disorders is suggested due to effect of Toxoplasma on host’s hormone levels.