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Frequency of Torch Infections during Pregnancy in Peshawar, Pakistan

Muhammad Asif Zeb, Shah Faisal Jamal, Awal Mir, Aamir Ali Khan and Aman Ullah

Background and aim: The purpose of this study was to find out the frequency of TORCH (Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus) infection during pregnancy, in Peshawar, Pakistan. In developing countries like Pakistan, TORCH infections cause serious complication during pregnancy. These infections can transmit from mother to fetus, causing congenital anomalies and intrauterine fetal death. Therefore, detection of TORCH infection is necessary during pregnancy. Primary infection has higher mortality than previous infection. Primary infection can be demonstrated by means of IgM antibodies as IgM antibodies indicate primary or recurrent infection.
Materials and methods: In the present study 800 samples were included which came to the Central Pathology laboratory for routine testing. For the detection of IgM ELISA method was used according to the manufacturer. This method is sensitive and specific for detection of IgM antibodies.
Results: The present study reveals that the frequency of TORCH infection during pregnancy is 6.99%. Frequency of anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibodies is 2.5%, rubella 1.5%, cytomegalovirus 1.8% and Herpes simplex virus 1.1%.
Conclusion: This study reveals that TORCH infections require serious attention as these infections cause serious abnormalities and anomalies in children as well as to pregnant females.