Seroprevalence of torch infection in bad obstetric history

Abstract

Primary infection with TORCH complex [Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes simplex virus II (HSV-II)] in pregnant women can lead to adverse outcome which are initially inapparent or asymptomatic and thus difficult to diagnose on clinical grounds. Over a one-year period 380 serum samples were collected from pregnant women having bad obstetric history, attending antenatal clinic. In the present study we have shown the prevalence of Toxoplasma, Rubella, CMV, HSV-II infection in pregnant women by demonstrating the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies by ELISA test. It was found that, IgM antibodies were positive in 40 (10.52%) for Toxoplasma, 102 (26.8%) for Rubella, 32 (8.42%) for CMV and 14 (3.6%) for HSV-II. IgG antibodies were positive in 160 (42.10%) for Toxoplasma, 233 (61.3%) for Rubella, 346 (91.05%) for CMV 145 (33.58%) for HSV-II. Hence all antenatal cases with bad obstetric history should be routinely screened for TORCH as early diagnosis and appropriate intervention, will help in proper management of these cases.