Page 207 - Textbook of Pathology, 6th Edition

It has been estimated that TORCH complex infections 191
have an overall incidence of 1-5% of all live born children.
All the microorganisms in the TORCH complex are
transmitted transplacentally and, therefore, infect the foetus
from the mother. Herpes and cytomegalovirus infections are
common intrapartum infections acquired venereally. CHAPTER 7
Toxoplasmosis is a protozoal infection acquired by
contact with cat’s faeces or by ingestion of raw uncooked
meat. Rubella or German measles is teratogenic in pregnant
mothers. Cytomegalovirus and herpesvirus infection are
generally transmitted to foetus by chronic carrier mothers.
An infectious mononucleosis-like disease is present in
about 10% of mothers whose infants have Toxoplasma
infection. Genital herpes infection is present in 20% of
mothers whose newborn babies suffer from herpes infection.
Rubella infection during acute stage in the first 10 weeks of
pregnancy is more harmful to the foetus than at later stage
of gestation. Symptoms of cytomegalovirus infection are
present in less than 1% of mothers who display antibodies Infectious and Parasitic Diseases
to it. Figure 7.15 Lesions produced by TORCH complex infection in
The classic features of syndrome produced by TORCH foetus in utero.
complex are seen in congenital rubella. The features include:
ocular defects, cardiac defects, CNS manifestations, sensori- The foetal damage caused by TORCH complex infection
neural deafness, thrombocytopenia and hepatosplenomegaly is irreparable and, therefore, prevention and immunisation
(Fig. 7.15). are the best mode of therapy.

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