Are TORCH infections teratogenic?

[2] The most widely accepted infectious teratogens are known as TORCH infections. If a woman is infected prenatally, perinatally, peripartum, or even postnatally, these pathogens are known to cause congenital birth defects. TORCH infections classically include: Toxoplasmosis.

What are torches infection?

TORCH Syndrome refers to infection of a developing fetus or newborn by any of a group of infectious agents. “TORCH” is an acronym meaning (T)oxoplasmosis, (O)ther Agents, (R)ubella (also known as German Measles), (C)ytomegalovirus, and (H)erpes Simplex.

What is TORCH pregnancy?

TORCH is an acronym for a group of diseases that cause congenital (present at birth) conditions if a fetus is exposed to them in the uterus. TORCH stands for: toxoplasmosis. other (such as syphilis, varicella, mumps, parvovirus, and HIV) rubella.

What is TORCH in prenatal care and what does it stand for?

The full form of TORCH is toxoplasmosis, rubella cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and HIV. However, it can also contain other newborn infections. Sometimes the test is spelled TORCHS, where the extra “S” stands for syphilis.

What are considered teratogens?

Teratogens are substances that may produce physical or functional defects in the human embryo or fetus after the pregnant woman is exposed to the substance. Alcohol and cocaine are examples of such substances.

What happens if TORCH test is positive in pregnancy?

The presence of IgG antibodies in a pregnant woman usually indicates a past infection or immunity. If there is a question of an active infection, a second blood test is performed a few weeks later so the antibody levels can be compared. If levels increase, it can mean the infection was recent or is currently happening.

What does TORCHes stand for?

TORCH Infections. Toxoplasmosis, Other (syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19), Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes infections.

How is TORCH infection acquired?

The infection is transmitted via undercooked meat or through poor kitchen hygiene. Cat faeces are a common source of infection. Primary infection during pregnancy can lead to loss of the fetus or congenital toxoplasmosis; primary infection affects about 1 in 1000 newborn babies in the USA.

What is TORCH positive?

The results are termed either “positive” or “negative.” A positive test result means IgG or IgM antibodies were found for one or more of the infections covered in the screening. This can mean that you currently have, have had in the past, or have been previously vaccinated against the disease.