TORCH infections
Also written as: TORCH — Toxoplasmosis, Other infections, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex
A group of congenital infections that can cause similar patterns of birth defects and neurological abnormalities in affected infants.
Full Definition
TORCH is an acronym representing a group of infectious agents that can cause congenital infections with similar clinical presentations: Toxoplasmosis, Other infections (including syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19), Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus. These infections can cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus, potentially causing a constellation of findings including intrauterine growth restriction, microcephaly, chorioretinitis, hearing loss, intellectual disability, and other neurological abnormalities. Early diagnosis and treatment, when available, can sometimes improve outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as it is an acronym; spell out components on first use in formal documents.
In Context
- "TORCH titers were sent to evaluate for congenital infections in the microcephalic infant." — Neonatal infectious disease consultation
- "The constellation of findings suggested a TORCH infection as the cause of the child's developmental delays." — Pediatric neurology evaluation