TORCH Profile Test
The TORCH profile is a group of blood tests looking for a variety of illnesses in newborn babies. TORCH stands for toxoplasmosis, rubella cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and HIV. It may also contain other neonatal illnesses.
Why is the Test Performed?
When a pregnant mother becomes infected with certain bacteria, the baby in the womb may also become infected. The fetus is more vulnerable to infection during the first 3 to 4 months of pregnancy.
This test is used to detect TORCH infections in babies. The importance of these infections is that they can cause the following issues in the baby:
- Birth defects
- Growth delay
- Brain and nervous system problems
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionWho Should Get the TORCH Profile Test Done?
- Pregnant individuals who have been exposed to any of the viruses tested in the torch profile test for pregnancy should get the test.
- If any symptoms arise during pregnancy, such as fever, tiredness, cataracts, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), the TORCH test for pregnancy should be performed.
Common Symptoms
If any of the following symptoms arise during pregnancy, a TORCH-13 test should be performed:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Sleepiness or Fatigue
- Cataracts in the eyes
- Loss of hearing
- Heart diseases
- Liver swelling
- Reddish brown spots on the skin
- Yellowing of eyes and skin
- Bluish rashes on the skin
Causes of TORCH Infections
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a torch test components to parasites from undercooked meat or cat faeces.
Other Infections:
- HIV: Spread through sexual contact or sharing needles. Most infections in children occur near birth.
- Syphilis: A bacterial STI spread through sores during sex. Can affect babies during birth.
- Chickenpox: A contagious viral infection, usually acquired in childhood or through vaccination.
- Zika Virus: Spread by mosquitoes or sexual contact with an infected person.
Each infection can affect a pregnancy, so early detection and treatment are key.
Procedure for TORCH Profile Test
A small area must be cleaned by the health care practitioner (usually the finger) and pierce it using a lancet, a tiny needle. Blood can be drawn from a tiny glass tube, a slide, a test strip, or a small container. If there is any bleeding, apply cotton or a bandage to the puncture site.
Preparation for the TORCH Profile Test
The consultant doctor will provide information on preparation ahead of the torch test purpose, if special preparations are needed.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentWhat Happens During the TORCH Profile Test?
- The test involves a small prick that may sting slightly as the blood sample is taken.
- It takes just a few minutes, and any stinging or bruising should disappear quickly.
TORCH Profile Test Results
The torch profile blood test results help your doctor determine if any infections could affect your pregnancy. Here's a breakdown of what the results may indicate:
Normal Results: No antibodies are found, meaning there is no current or past infection, or you’re protected due to past vaccination.
Abnormal Results:
- Positive Test: The presence of IgG or IgM antibodies indicates that you may have had or currently have an infection.
- IgM Antibodies: If IgM antibodies are present, it suggests a recent or ongoing infection that could potentially affect your baby.
- IgG Antibodies: These suggest that you’ve had a past infection or are immune. If there's concern about a recent infection, your doctor may recommend further testing to confirm.
