TORCH screen
Microbiology
Notes
- The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background.
- TORCH screens may be performed in cases of intrauterine growth retardation, intrauterine death and suspected congenital infection.
- TORCH stands for toxoplasma, Rubella, CMV, herpes. However, this acronym is now outdated, as all these tests are not necessarily performed. HSV serology is no longer performed in this circumstance.
- The tests performed depend on the clinical details provided.
| Clinical situation | Source of sample | Tests performed |
|---|---|---|
| Viable pregnancy (e.g. IUGR) | Blood from mother | Rubella IgM and Rubella IgG |
| Toxoplasma | ||
| CMV | ||
| Parvovirus | ||
| Foetal loss | Blood from mother | Rubella IgM and Rubella IgG |
| Toxoplasma | ||
| CMV | ||
| Parvovirus | ||
| Post-natal | Blood from baby * | Rubella IgM and Rubella IgG |
| Toxoplasma | ||
| CMV |
* Tests will also be performed on the mother's ante-natal blood if this is available.
Sample requirements
Serum - paired samples not required
8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube
Neonatal samples into a 1 mL serum tube
Required information
- Relevant clinical details
- Pregnancy gestation
Storage/transport
Store at fridge temperature
Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature
Turnaround time
Up to 8 days