Definition:
TORCH or TORCHES infections are a group of viral, and seldom bacterial infections, which gain access to the fetal bloodstream transplacentally via the chorionic villi.
Diagnosis:
When physical examination of the newborn manifests signs of the TORCH syndrome, the examiner may test blood, urine, and spinal fluid for evidence of the infections listed above. Diagnosis can be confirmed by culture of one of the specific pathogens or by raised levels of IgM against the pathogen.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of a TORCH infection may include fever and poor feeding. An enlarged liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly) is typical, as is the yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes called jaundice. Hearing impairment, eye problems, mental retardation, autism, and death can be the result of TORCH infections.
