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TORCH infections: what it is, when to get tested and why it's important
What are TORCH infections?
TORCH is an acronym that encompasses a group of infections that are particularly dangerous during pregnancy. They have the ability to be transmitted to the fetus in utero and can lead to serious damage to the nervous system, sensory organs, birth defects, or even fetal death.
The abbreviation TORCH stands for:
T (Toxoplasma gondii) — toxoplasmosis
O (Others) — others: syphilis, HIV, parvovirus B19, varicella virus
R (Rubella) — rubella
C (Cytomegalovirus, CMV) — cytomegalovirus
H (Herpes simplex virus, HSV) — herpes simplex virus (types 1 and 2)
These infections are especially dangerous for the fetus when the infection occurs for the first time during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to detect antibodies to the pathogens even at the planning stage.
Why is testing for TORCH infections important when planning a pregnancy?
TORCH infections have the ability to penetrate the placental barrier and affect the baby's immature immune system. This can cause:
intrauterine growth retardation
vision and hearing impairments
microcephaly
heart defects
congenital pneumonia, hepatitis
spontaneous abortion or stillbirth
TORCH testing can detect the presence of immunity to the pathogen (IgG antibodies) or signs of acute infection (IgM antibodies). This helps to take timely measures: delay pregnancy, treat the disease, or minimize risks.
What does the TORCH analysis look like: what exactly is being tested?
| Indicator | What turns out | Clinical significance |
|---|---|---|
| IgG to Toxoplasma | Presence of immunity to Toxoplasma | Positive IgG without IgM - past disease, immunity is present |
| IgM to Toxoplasma | Sign of acute infection | Requires further examination, active infection is possible |
| IgG/IgM to Rubella | Condition after vaccination or rubella | IgG (+), IgM (–) — immunity, no danger |
| IgG/IgM to CMV | Past or active infection | Positive IgM — possible threat to the fetus |
| IgG/IgM to HSV | Determining the phase of herpes | IgM (+) — active stage, risk of transmission to the child |
When to get tested for TORCH infections
At the stage of pregnancy planning — optimally 3–6 months before conception
In the first trimester — if not done before
If infection is suspected — appearance of symptoms (rash, fever, enlarged lymph nodes)
After contact with sick people — especially for chickenpox or rubella
The analysis is performed using the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) method, from venous blood. In complex cases, PCR is used to detect viral DNA.
Is there anything I need to do if IgG or IgM is detected?
IgG (+), IgM (–) — means that you have already had contact with the pathogen and are immune. This is safe for the fetus.
IgG (–), IgM (–) — you have not been sick and are not immune. You need to get vaccinated (if possible) or avoid infections during pregnancy.
IgM (+) — indicates recent or active infection. Further examination is required (IgG avidity, PCR, fetal ultrasound).
It is especially important to detect acute rubella, cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis — these infections can have serious consequences if contracted in utero.
TORCH infections are not a cause for fear, but a reason for awareness. Timely diagnosis, consultation with an infectious disease specialist or obstetrician-gynecologist, and adherence to recommendations make it possible to plan a safe pregnancy and give birth to a healthy child.
