First report of molecular and histopathological detection of Toxoplasma gondii in aborted fetal goat myocardium in Algeria with associated risk factors.

Caused by Toxoplasma gondii, toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease with global public health importance. This study is the first in Algeria to evaluate the presence of T. gondii in foetal myocardium of aborted goats. This was achieved through an integrated approach combining histopathological analysis and molecular detection specifically targeting the B1 gene of T. gondii. The study aimed to understand the dynamics of abortions in the goats of Djelfa, to refine the identification of risk factors. A total of 307 heart muscle samples were collected from aborted goats, from 36 goat farms in the province of Djelfa, in north-central Algeria, for molecular and histopathological analyses. T. gondii DNA was detected in 22.5% of the aborted foetuses and was associated with histopathological lesions caused by this parasite. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between T. gondii infection and various risk factors, including primiparity, early stages of gestation, cold seasons, the presence of cats in the environment (P < 0.0001), the farming system (P < 0.009), and a history of abortion(P < 0.015). Histopathological examinations showed a majority infiltration of mononuclear cells 98.5%. Tissue cysts were rare (1.44%), and no myocardial fibrosis was detected. Further studies are necessary to better characterise the genetic diversity of T. gondii strains in Algerian goat farms and their role in abortions. Infection with T. gondii during the fetal period could contribute to economic losses in the studied region. A thorough analysis of aborted samples from different regions is essential to optimise epidemiological surveillance and food safety.