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Things to Know About Torch Profile Test

· Health and Medical
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The TORCH screen is a group of blood tests to diagnose infections in pregnant women. These infections may be passed on to the unborn baby during pregnancy. However, on-time detection and proper treatment of an infection can stop problems in newborns. TORCH, also referred to as TORCHS, is an acronym for a group of the following infectious diseases that are diagnosed in a TORCH profile test: 

  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Other (hepatitis viruses, HIV, parvovirus, varicella)
  • Rubella (German measles)
  • Cytomegalovirus
  • Herpes simplex
  • Syphilis

Why TORCH screen is done?

Normally, a doctor carries out a few components of the TORCH profile test on a routine basis when a woman makes her first prenatal visit. Later, the doctor may perform some other parts of the test in case a woman has any symptoms of certain infections and health problems during the pregnancy. These infections or diseases can cross the placenta, causing birth defects to the infant. These conditions are:

  1. Deafness
  2. Cataracts
  3. Jaundice
  4. Heart problems
  5. Intellectual disability (ID)  
  6. Low platelet levels
  7. Seizures

The tests check for antibodies of transmittable diseases. Antibodies are proteins that identify and demolish all destructive substances, like bacteria and viruses.

Antibodies tests: The tests check for two diverse antibodies that include immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM).

IgG antibodies - These antibodies are present when an individual has had an infection or disease in the past and has now recovered.

IgM antibodies - These antibodies are present when a person has an acute infection or health disease.

A doctor can use the antibodies tests and ask for the woman’s history of any signs and symptoms to evaluate if the unborn is exposed to an infection.

Risks of a TORCH profile test?

These tests are simple blood tests and have no risks. Women may experience pain, redness, and bruising at the blood test site.

If an infection is detected through the blood check up, the doctor will create a proper treatment plan for pregnant women. It is important for pregnant women to prevent such infections by taking preventive measures as suggested by their doctors.