What are the Symptoms and Complications of Each TORCH Infection?
Toxoplasmosis Caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, it can be asymptomatic or present mild flu-like symptoms in the mother. However, congenital toxoplasmosis can lead to severe complications like chorioretinitis, hydrocephalus, and intracranial calcifications in the fetus.
Other Infections Includes infections such as syphilis, which can cause stillbirth or congenital syphilis with symptoms like bone deformities and neurological complications. Varicella-zoster can lead to congenital varicella syndrome, characterized by limb hypoplasia and neurological defects.
Rubella Rubella infection during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, can result in congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). CRS can cause deafness, heart defects, and developmental delays.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) CMV is the most common congenital infection. While the mother might have mild symptoms, the fetus can suffer from sensorineural hearing loss, microcephaly, and developmental disabilities.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Neonatal herpes can occur if the mother has active genital herpes at delivery. It can lead to severe complications like encephalitis and disseminated herpes infection in the newborn.
