TORCH infections — chickenpox, rubella, herpes, cytomegalovirus
TORCH is a collective term for a group of infections that are particularly dangerous during pregnancy because they can affect the fetus and cause birth defects.
The acronym TORCH typically includes toxoplasmosis, other infections (Other), rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes (HSV).
TORCH infections are often asymptomatic or mild in adults, but when a pregnant woman is infected for the first time, the risk to the fetus increases significantly.
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Why take the TORCH test when planning a pregnancy?
The purpose of the examination is to determine whether the woman has previously encountered these infections and whether she has immunity, as well as to rule out an active phase of the disease before conception or in early pregnancy.
The TORCH test helps:
- Assess the risk of primary infection during pregnancy.
- Detect an active infection requiring monitoring or treatment.
- Plan pregnancy monitoring and, if necessary, additional fetal testing (ultrasound, invasive diagnostics).
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Types of tests: IgM, IgG, avidity
For TORCH infections, the following are usually determined:
- IgM — antibodies from an acute (recent) infection
- IgG — memory antibodies indicating a past infection and/or developed immunity
- IgG avidity — the "strength" of antibody binding; Helps assess the duration of infection
General logic:
- IgM "+", IgG "-" — possible primary infection (especially dangerous during pregnancy)
- IgM "-", IgG "+" — past infection, developed immunity
- IgM "-", IgG "-" — no immunity, risk of primary infection
- IgM "+", IgG "+" — possible recent or reactivated infection, detailed interpretation, avidity assessment, and specialist consultation required
How to interpret results (table)
Specific reference values and units of measurement vary by laboratory, so always refer to the comments on the analysis form.
| Result Option | What this could mean | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| IgM "-", IgG "-" | No immunity, no history of infection | Discuss vaccination (if available) and preventive measures with your doctor |
| IgM "-", IgG "+" | Past infection, immunity | Routine observation, low risk of primary infection |
| IgM "+", IgG "-" | Possible acute primary infection | Urgent consultation with an infectious disease specialist/obstetrician-gynecologist |
| IgM "+", IgG "+" | Recent or reactivated infection | IgG avidity assessment, further testing |
Interpretation should always be performed by a physician, taking into account the gestational age, complaints, and other examination data.
What to do if an infection is detected
If acute TORCH infection is suspected during pregnancy, decisions should not be made based on a single test—a comprehensive approach is necessary.
The doctor may recommend:
- Repeat the test dynamically
- Determine IgG avidity
- Conduct PCR diagnostics (blood, urine, swabs)
- Enhanced ultrasound monitoring of the fetus
- For some infections, specific therapy or prophylaxis (according to clinical guidelines) is recommended.
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General information
TORCH infections at different stages of pregnancy
The risk and possible consequences depend on the time of first exposure to the infection:
- First trimester — higher risk of severe birth defects and adverse pregnancy outcomes
- Second trimester — possible damage to individual fetal organs (nervous system, vision, and hearing)
- Third trimester — late complications and chronic infections in the newborn are more common
For each specific infection (toxoplasmosis, rubella, CMV, herpes), there are separate clinical guidelines for pregnancy management.
FAQ
Should all women planning a pregnancy take the TORCH test?
Is it a good sign if I have IgG for rubella or toxoplasmosis?
Are TORCH infections dangerous if they occurred long ago?
Is it possible to "cure" TORCH before pregnancy?
Should I repeat the TORCH test during pregnancy?
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What infections are included in TORCH?
The most common components of the TORCH test include:
The test form may have separate lines for IgM and IgG for each pathogen.