Top Things to Know About Torch Screen Test for Pregnant Women
Apr 04, 2022
A set of test used for early detection of any infection in pregnant women, a TORCH screen test helps in preventing unwanted complications for newborns susceptible to contracting infections from the pregnant mother. The TORCH profile test, also often referred to as TORCHS, denotes the following infections that it helps screen for:
- Toxoplasmosis
- Others – includes parvovirus, hepatitis viruses, varicella, and HIV
- Rubella or German measles
- Cytomegalovirus
- Herpes simplex
- Syphilis
During your first prenatal visit, you will likely be screened for certain TORCH components as a routine measure by your gynecologist. Those women who show symptoms of some of the other diseases may be required to undergo further screening. The transmitting viruses easily transcend the placenta and are responsible for causing several birth defects in newborns.
The TORCH screen test helps detect an infectious disease by screening for two specific antibodies in the test sample:
- Immunoglobulin G (IgG) – The presence of these antibodies indicates a person has been infected in the past but is no longer ill.
- Immunoglobulin M (IgM) – These are present in individuals afflicted by an ongoing acute infection.
Armed with a history of exhibited symptoms and the antibody results, doctors can assess if a fetus has had any exposure to the infections from its mother.
TORCH Screen – Diseases Detected
Toxoplasmosis: This disease is caused when the T. gondiiparasite orally enters the body, most likely through raw eggs or undercooked meat. An infected fetus typically does not show any symptoms either in the womb or for a few years after birth. Later, symptoms such as seizures, deafness, vision loss, and mental retardation may be seen.
Rubella: Also referred to as German measles, the virus causes rash and has minor side effects in children. However, an infected fetus is prone to suffering serious birth defects such as delayed development, heart defects, and vision problems.
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Cytomegalovirus: A virus from the herpes family, it does not result in any noteworthy symptoms among adults. A developing fetus, on the other hand, can suffer intellectual disability, hearing loss, and epilepsy, if infected.
Herpes simplex: This virus may affect a baby while in the womb or during delivery in the birth canal. Affected infants exhibit serious disorders such as seizures, breathing issues, and brain damage with the symptoms becoming prominent during the second week of the baby’s life.
Other diseases: This category comprises several infectious diseases such as mumps, measles, HIV, Epstein-Barr, and chickenpox, among others.
TORCH Screen – Risks Involved
A TORCH profile test is a low-risk, simple blood test that may cause mild discomfort such as redness, bruising, or pain around the puncture area. An infection of the puncture wound is an extremely rare occurrence while the fetus is not at any risk from the test. There are no special preparations required for undergoing the test but you need to mention any ongoing medication to your doctor in order to be advised accordingly. Moreover, torch test prices are affordable so that you don’t have to worry about any extra financial burden.
TORCH Screen Test – Interpreting the Results
The results of a TORCH screen test suggest whether you are currently infected or have been infected by any of the viruses in the recent past. A positive result for IgG or IgM antibodies means that you are either carrying an infection, have been infected recently, or have been vaccinated against previously. For a better understanding of the results, professional consultation is recommended. In case of an infection, a more comprehensive treatment plan will be created so that the pregnancy is not affected. A negative result suggests that no antibodies are present and there has been no infection.
Conclusion
During pregnancy, both the health of the fetus and the mother is equally important. A TORCH test cost in Kolkata also won’t set you back by a lot, especially considering it involves your baby’s future. Keeping that in mind, pregnant women should always consider getting a TORCH screening done to ensure a healthy birth.
