Rubella is part of which congenital infection group known as TORCH?

Rubella is part of which congenital infection group known as TORCH?

• A. Toxoplasma, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes
• B. Tuberculosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes
• C. TORCH
• D. Tetanus, Others, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes

Answer: (C)

The concept here is understanding the TORCH group of congenital infections. TORCH refers to a set of pathogens that can cross the placenta during pregnancy and cause serious fetal or neonatal problems. Rubella is included in this group, which is why it’s listed as part of TORCH. The full acronym expands to Toxoplasma gondii, Other (a mix of pathogens such as syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19, HIV, hepatitis B, etc.), Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus. These infections share the risk of transplacental transmission and resulting congenital or neonatal abnormalities. In rubella specifically, maternal infection can lead to congenital rubella syndrome with heart defects like patent ductus arteriosus, cataracts, and sensorineural deafness, among other issues. Knowing rubella is part of TORCH helps clinicians consider maternal infection history and anticipate potential neonatal complications.

The concept here is understanding the TORCH group of congenital infections. TORCH refers to a set of pathogens that can cross the placenta during pregnancy and cause serious fetal or neonatal problems. Rubella is included in this group, which is why it’s listed as part of TORCH.

The full acronym expands to Toxoplasma gondii, Other (a mix of pathogens such as syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19, HIV, hepatitis B, etc.), Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus. These infections share the risk of transplacental transmission and resulting congenital or neonatal abnormalities. In rubella specifically, maternal infection can lead to congenital rubella syndrome with heart defects like patent ductus arteriosus, cataracts, and sensorineural deafness, among other issues. Knowing rubella is part of TORCH helps clinicians consider maternal infection history and anticipate potential neonatal complications.