Torch PCR Qualitative

TORCH PCR qualitative test detects severe infections in pregnant women. These infections can affect babies’ health after birth and might deteriorate their health. Early detection can help prevent complications in newborns.

TORCH PCR Qualitative Test - Overview

TORCH is an abbreviation for infections that can be detected using a qualitative PCR test. These infections include toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and other infections like (HIV, hepatitis, varicella,and parvovirus).

Sometimes the TORCH test is written as TORCHS, where the extra ‘S’ stands for syphilis—an additional infection that the test can detect.

Antibiotic testing is the first step to identifying the presence of any microbial infection. The infection can be confirmed if the surface antibodies are present for a specific virus or bacteria. 

The antibodies include IgG, which indicates the presence of an infection in the past, and IgM, which means acute infection in the present. 

Pathologists go for a TORCH PCR qualitative test to analyse the presence of viral protein in the sample. PCR test includes processes like amplifying the genetic material in the sample. 

The genetic material shows the presence of a gene encoding for the virus’s surface proteins. The primers help in detecting the presence of these specific genes. PCR result shows a cycle threshold value that indicates the number of cycles it takes for the appearance of the gene.

The lower the cycle threshold, the more severe the infection is. TORCH PCR qualitative test can be a part of regular screening during pregnancy to check the infection from time to time. 

Who Should Get Tested? 

This test is specifically meant for pregnant women. Ignoring the symptoms and avoiding the TORCH PCR test could lead to infants with vision loss, deafness, jaundice, and low platelet levels after birth. 

After early detection of the infection, one can quickly seek treatment from specialists. Ordinary anti-viral medicines can work for minor infections. 

The TORCH PCR test helps in determining whether there may be an infection and can save the infant from facing life-threatening complications. 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jasmin Rath, Obstetrics & Gynaecology from apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.