TORCH infections
Also written as: TORCH — Toxoplasmosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes
A group of congenital infections (Toxoplasmosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes) that cause similar patterns of fetal and neonatal abnormalities.
Full Definition
TORCH is an acronym representing a constellation of congenital infections that can cause similar clinical and radiological manifestations in the developing fetus and newborn. The group includes Toxoplasmosis, Other infections (including syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19, and Zika virus), Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes simplex virus. These infections can cause intrauterine growth restriction, microcephaly, hydrocephalus, intracranial calcifications, chorioretinitis, hepatosplenomegaly, and hearing loss. In pediatric radiology, TORCH infections present characteristic patterns on neuroimaging, including periventricular calcifications (CMV), basal ganglia calcifications (toxoplasmosis), and various white matter abnormalities. Early recognition through imaging is crucial for appropriate treatment and long-term care planning.
Usage
Usage note: The 'O' category has expanded to include numerous additional pathogens beyond the original acronym.
In Context
- "The pattern of periventricular calcifications was consistent with TORCH infection, likely CMV." — Neonatal brain MRI report
- "TORCH titers were ordered based on the constellation of imaging findings." — Pediatric infectious disease consultation