ABSTRACT
AIM: To assess antibody levels against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus in pregnant women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and two virtually healthy pregnant women aged 18-35 years were studied. Antibodies to diphtheria and tetanus were measured in passive hemagglutination reaction with diphtheria and tetanus diagnostic kits. Antibodies to Bordetella pertussis antigens were determined in hemagglutination assay (HA) and in enzyme immunoassay (EIA). RESULTS: Protective titers of anti-diphtheria and anti-tetanus antibodies were detected in 91.2% and 94.1% of participants respectively, whereas high titers--in 24.5% and 27.4% respectively. Low levels of IgG to B. pertussis antigens measured by EIA were observed in 70.6% of participants whereas moderate and high levels--in 22.5% and 6.9% respectively. Conditionally protective levels of anti-pertussis antibodies measured by HA were detected in 10.8% of participants. CONCLUSION: Obtained results demonstrate high level of protection of pregnant women against diphtheria and tetanus and low level of anti-pertussis immunity.
