TORCH infections
Also written as: TORCH — Toxoplasmosis, Other infections, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus
A group of congenital infections that can cause serious fetal and neonatal complications.
Full Definition
TORCH is an acronym representing a constellation of congenital infections that can cause significant morbidity and mortality in fetuses and newborns. The acronym stands for Toxoplasmosis, Other infections (including syphilis, varicella-zoster, and parvovirus B19), Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus. These infections can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy or delivery, potentially causing intrauterine growth restriction, developmental anomalies, neurological deficits, and multi-organ dysfunction. Diagnosis requires specific serological testing and molecular techniques, with histopathological examination revealing characteristic inflammatory patterns and inclusion bodies specific to each pathogen.
Usage
Usage note: Always define the acronym on first use in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Placental pathology revealed chronic villitis consistent with TORCH infections." — Pathology report
- "The newborn was evaluated for TORCH infections given the presence of microcephaly and hepatosplenomegaly." — Clinical assessment