TORCH (TORCH) - pathogenic invasions, which the World Health Organization (WHO) considers the most dangerous for a woman during gestation (pregnancy) and the fetus she wears. The peculiarity of these invasions is in their relative harmlessness for humans in their normal state and significant danger for pregnant women, which makes the analysis for TORCH infection during pregnancy an extremely important way of diagnosing, preventing and decoding possible threats to the health of a woman in a position.
The word "TORCH" is not an abbreviation, but just a Russian reading of that in English. In domestic medical practice, the term equivalent to the abbreviation "TORCH" is the abbreviation "IUI" (intrauterine infection). TORCH infections include a complex of viral and bacterial pathogens that can adversely affect the development of gestation, the health of the fetus (primarily its nervous system), the likelihood of spontaneous abortion of a pregnant woman and fetal malformations.
Explanation of the abbreviation:
From the figure it becomes clear the meaning of all the letters of the abbreviation, except for "other" (others). This category includes proven (syphilis, chlamydia, hepatitis A and B, gonococcal infection, listeriosis) and probable (parvovirus B19, chickenpox virus, enteroviruses) infections, similar in clinical manifestations of intrauterine infection of newborns to toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes.
Special terms of immunology, knowledge of which is necessary in deciphering the result of tests for TORCH infection
Incomprehensible words, icons and symbols on test forms have always been an obstacle for inquisitive expectant mothers who are vitally interested in the successful course and resolution of pregnancy. Unfortunately, some specialists in the medical field, being good practitioners, turn out to be difficult interlocutors, unable to clearly explain difficult medical terms and phenomena to women. But doctors need to be understood and forgiven - first of all, they are responsible for the health of the patient and the life of her unborn child, however, the explanatory mission of the doctor is also very important.
Below, in a simple and accessible form, concepts are presented that are important for deciphering the test result for TORCH infection.
Immunology
Immunology is a science that studies immunity, the immune system and the characteristics of the immune responses of the human body. The definition of TORCH infections is closely related to this science, since the immune system, when faced with an infection, leaves a trail in the form of a specific formation, a substance called "immunoglobulin", by which you can get all the information a doctor needs about the nature of the infection, its type and the time of infection into the body.
Immunity
The special ability of the human body to resist hostile agents (antigens) is called immunity in medicine.
An antigen is any material element whose nature is incompatible with that of a person. The antigen can be a living being - an insect, a helminth, a protozoan, a bacterium; conditionally living - spores, seeds, pollen and viruses; inanimate - various organic and inorganic formations (animal hair, dust of various etiologies, splinters from various materials, medicines, food).
Human immunity consists of many components, parts, features and phenomena, which allows us to speak of it as a system. The immune system includes the following organs: red blood brain, spleen, thymus, Peyer's patches, tonsils, lymph nodes.
The response of the immune system to an antigen is called the "immune response" in medical science. The immune response can be either normal or abnormal. In the first case, they mean the detection, maintenance and elimination of an antigen that poses a threat to the body; in the second, an attack by the immune system on its own body. Abnormal functioning of the immune system is called "autoimmune reaction" (autoimmune disease, allergy, allergic reaction).
Types of immunity
The classification of immunity has long been a problem in medicine, until a unified approach to this issue has been developed. In its most simplified form, immunity is divided into two types: a) nonspecific (congenital) and b) specific (acquired). In more detail on the diagram:
The production of antibodies is associated with the development of a humoral type of immune response.
Antibodies
Antibodies (immunoglobulins, lg) are specific proteins produced by β-lymphocytes (plasma cells), the main task of which in the human body is immune regulation, participation in the immune response as a kind of weapon against antigens. In mammals, five specific classes of immunoglobulins are distinguished - IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, IgE, they differ from each other in functional characteristics, chemical composition, physical structure:
Significance of antibodies lgG and lgM in the diagnosis of infections of the TORCH group
Immunoglobulins of class M and G manifest themselves at different stages of the growth of the infection and disintegrate in the blood each in its own time, which allows specialists to determine the moment of infection and make fairly accurate predictions regarding the further course of the disease, the appointment of treatment.
Antibodies M arise at the earliest stages of the development of the infectious process, persist in the blood for a long time (from 6 weeks to 2 years), perform a receptor function (responsible for determining the vulnerability of an antigen). They are the first of all immunoglobulins to react to an antigen, then they are replaced by antibodies G. Antibodies M are not able to penetrate the placenta to the fetus, but this is not necessary, since they are produced in his blood (for this feature they were called antibodies of newborns). The presence of this type of immunoglobulins is a sure sign of the presence of infection, including IUI.
Antibodies G (have 4 subclasses) - the most "important" antibodies in the human body, play a fundamental role in the humoral immune response. The synthesis of this type of antibodies depends on the primary reaction of the antigen with antibodies of type M - the information obtained about the vulnerability of the antigen forms the “deadly” potential of lgG. In case of repeated invasion of the already "familiar" pathogen, lgG will begin to be produced immediately, bypassing the receptor reaction of immunoglobulins M (in the laboratory it will look like a lot of lgG and little lgM, that is, the subject has a persistent immunity to infection). Antibodies G are able to cross the placenta to the fetus, creating the basis for anti-infectious immunity in newborns. Detection of a large amount of lgG in a pregnant woman for one of the TORCH infections is not considered an indication for her treatment.
Avidity
This concept in immunology characterizes the strength of acquired immunity, its resistance and stability. If a primary infection has occurred, then lgG will not begin to be produced immediately, but after some time - this is a low or minimal avidity, indicating that the subject does not have immunity to infection; if lgG began to be produced more quickly than usual, but still not quickly enough, this is an average or normal avidity, indicating that the patient has developed immunity to the pathogen relatively recently; if lgG appears immediately and in large quantities, then this is a high, maximum avidity - evidence of a long-term, stable immunity to infection.
Clinical features of the procedure for testing for TORCH infection
In accordance with the schedule for the delivery of tests by a woman during gestation, the analysis for TORCH infection is carried out once, when the pregnant woman is registered. But, if you approach the issue more responsibly, then the diagnosis of intrauterine infections should be carried out 2-3 months before gestation. Of course, it is not so easy to calculate everything, but planning a pregnancy will allow a woman to insure herself against unpleasant accidents.
Preparation for testing
The material for the analysis is blood taken from a vein. The sampling is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach - a woman should not eat anything 7-8 hours before the start of the procedure. You can drink water and sweetened tea (1-1.5 hours before the start of the procedure). There are some foods that can change the test scores, even if they were consumed a day before the start of the procedure, for example, alcohol. Naturally, it is better to refrain from consuming these products long before the start of the diagnosis. Also, it will not be superfluous to abstain from taking vitamins and nutritional supplements, medications and smoking.
Marking results
Speaking about the labeling of the analysis results, let us pay attention to two unrelated types of test designation - general and particular. The general is the interpretation of the test itself, it can be negative, positive and false positive. Private is the designation of immunoglobulins with minus “-”, plus “+” and plus-minus “+”, for example, -lgG, + lgG and + lgG.
General interpretation:
- negative - no infection;
- positive - an infection has been detected;
- false positive - the analysis showed the presence of infection in its absence. This result is most often associated with an autoimmune factor, an attack of immunity on its own body. In rare exceptions - with an error in laboratory testing, the metabolic reaction of a pregnant woman's body to the use of certain foods and drugs. In the event of a false positive result, as a rule, retesting is prescribed.
Antibody markers are indicators of avidity:
- minus - low avidity;
- plus / minus - average avidity;
- plus - high avidity.
Types of tests used to identify TORCH infections
Modern clinical medicine knows many ways to detect pathogenic invasions, each of which has its own specification and degree of effectiveness. The choice of the type of diagnosis depends on certain conditions and objectives of the study. To determine TORCH infections, serological methods of analysis are used (methods of obtaining data on antibodies and antigens using antigen-antibody reactions are carried out by observing reactions in blood serum, other fluids, as well as body tissues), which may include: agglutination reaction (RA ), precipitation reaction (RP), complement fixation reaction (RSK), immune adhesion reaction (RIP), radial hemolysis reaction (RRH), neutralization reaction (RN), immunofluorescence reaction (RIF, Koons method), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblot, radioimmunoassay (RIA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), multiplex analysis (MA, biochip analysis).
The overwhelming majority of the above types of laboratory diagnostics work with the usual immunological values, but not all - for example, the quantitative type of PCR analysis uses the unit of measurement "copy of DNA to the 10th power" (an example of a blank with test results, quantitative PCR analysis - under the paragraph).
Examples of decoding analysis for TORCH infection
Reading the form with the results of the antibody test, an interested person can see some numerical values - how can you understand where –lgG / lgM, + lgG / lgM and + lgG / lgM?
Let's pay attention to the analysis form - we see the column "reference values". This graph is divided into three parts - "negative", "weakly positive" and "positive". The result of the detected antibody is displayed in some numerical values, in units of IU / ml (international unit per milliliter).
The amount of antibodies detected is correlated with the reference limits indicated on the form of numerical values, falling into one or another part of the column. Below, for example, we marked all + lgG with red arrows for clarity.
In a similar way, we arrange the values for each antibody to each of the TORCH infections. We add the resulting lgG and lgM together and read the result in accordance with the decoding:
A) Cytomegalovirus
B) Herpes
C) Rubella
Important! All these data are presented for acquaintance with the general principles of the formation of the analysis results for TORCH infection. In no way the information provided here can replace the consultation of a doctor! Only a specialist can correctly decipher the results of such testing, take into account all the nuances and make the correct diagnosis.
The danger of SARS infections for the expectant mother and fetus
The last thing I would like to draw your attention to in this publication is the danger associated with TORCH infections. We recommend watching this video:
Infections are dangerous for any person, even an absolutely healthy one. And for women in position, they are all the more dangerous. Therefore, gynecologists always emphasize that women plan their pregnancy and get tested in advance for TORCH infections. Why is this so important, and what do the results of such studies mean?
Briefly about diseases
Such infections are also called TORCH-complex. It includes four diseases. These are (TO), rubella (R), cytomegalovirus infection (C), herpes (H). Syphilis, gonococcal infection, trichomoniasis are not included in the above complex.
Why is it dangerous during pregnancy? Infection with the herpes simplex virus leads to miscarriage, polyhydramnios, pathologies of intrauterine development, stillbirth. If we are talking about a primary episode of herpes when carrying a baby, then the risk of its transmission to the fetus is up to 50%.
Toxoplasmosis leads to spontaneous abortion and premature birth, hydrocephalus, thrombocytopenia.
When a woman is infected with a virus up to 16 weeks of pregnancy, intrauterine fetal death, defects in the development of the cardiovascular system, macrocephaly are observed.
Infection with cytomegalovirus up to 12 weeks leads to congenital deformities, miscarriages, cerebral palsy, damage to the organs of vision, hearing. If the infection occurs in the second or third trimester of the term, it can manifest itself with hepatitis, retinitis, pneumonia.
It is worth knowing that the greatest danger when carrying a baby is precisely the primary infection with TORCH infections. If it happened in women before pregnancy (and this is determined by the presence of class G antibodies in the blood), then the percentage of complications is small.
About checking expectant mothers for TORCH infection
The main purpose of the diagnosis is to identify seronegative pregnant women, that is, those women who do not have protective IgG antibodies. They must observe special precautions at all times, right up to delivery. Expectant mothers with primary diagnosed infections should be treated by a gynecologist and infectious disease specialist. If protective antibodies of class G to the above infections are found in the blood of a pregnant woman, then such patients are not subject to treatment.
How are women tested for TORCH infection? Testing is carried out by the method of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with the detection of antibodies to infections in the blood serum. In this case, the detection of early antibodies of class M and late class G plays a role.
Of course, few women are tested during pregnancy planning. Therefore, in Russia, such studies are carried out at the first contact of the expectant mother to an obstetrician-gynecologist in accordance with the order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated 02.10.2003.
About decoding the analysis of TORCH infection
So, the essence of the procedure is to determine the immunoglobulins (antibodies) to a group of infections. Antibodies are protective proteins of the immune system. They are formed in the female body when foreign substances enter it. Immunoglobulins are indicated by the Ig icon. For TORCH infections, it is customary to use IgG and IgM antibodies.
IgM antibodies indicate the acute phase of the disease. Sometimes these immunoglobulins remain in the body for a long time after the initial infection. To determine how long the expectant mother has been infected, the IgM and IgG detection results are compared. An increase in the latter indicates that the female body in the past has already met with such an infection and developed immunity.
In laboratory conditions, the qualitative and quantitative presence of IgG and IgM antibodies is determined for each TORCH infection.
So, if, as a result of the analysis, there are no IgG and IgM antibodies, then this means that the woman does not have immunity to this infection, and the body has not met with her before. With a negative IgG value and a positive IgM, a recent infection is stated, that is, the onset of the disease. When the value of both antibodies is positive, this means an acute stage of the disease and the risk of intrauterine infection.
If the analysis shows IgG +, and IgM-, it means that in the past the body with a viral disease has already met and developed immunity. That is, there is no threat to the baby.
The danger of TORCH-complex infections is that during primary infection during pregnancy, they can cause intrauterine infection of the fetus with damage to systems and organs, increasing the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, congenital malformations and malformations.
How does the TORCH complex stand for?
T (O) - toxoplasmosis (toxoplasmosis)
R - rubella (rubella)
C - cytomegalovirus infection
H - herpes (herpes simplex virus).
You need to undergo a laboratory examination for TORCH infection 2-3 months before the planned pregnancy.
Can the TORCH complex be done during pregnancy?
What to do if the pregnancy has already begun, and the blood test for the TORCH complex has not yet been done? It is necessary to take a blood test at the earliest stages of pregnancy - regardless of how you feel, since most infections of the TORCH complex are asymptomatic.
Why is a blood test for the TORCH complex carried out?
Determination of antibodies to intrauterine pathogens (TORCH) in the blood allows the doctor to predict the risk of fetal malformations and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate treatment. When there is a high risk of developing fetal malformations incompatible with life, abortion for medical reasons is recommended.
What method is used in the diagnosis of the TORCH complex?
Identification of the pathogen is carried out in a blood test by PCR (DNA research) and can mean either carriage or the presence of a disease.
How are the results of a blood test for TORCH complex evaluated?
In each case, the results of the tests are assessed by a doctor. When examining blood tests, antibodies of classes M and G can be detected:
if only G class antibodies are detected in the blood, this means that the infection occurred a long time ago, the body has formed immunity to this pathogen and at the moment the disease does not pose a danger to the mother and fetus;
class M antibodies in most cases indicate the acute phase of the disease, even if there are no manifestations;
if antibodies to the pathogen are not found, then there is no immunity to this disease in the body.
What to do if antibodies to TORCH-complex infections are not detected?
If antibodies to infections of the TORCH complex are not detected, the woman is recommended to be vaccinated against rubella no later than 3 months before the expected pregnancy. To prevent toxoplasmosis, it is necessary to observe the following rules before conception and during pregnancy: entrust the care of your cat to another family member; do not pet strangers or stray cats; wash your hands thoroughly before eating; do not eat raw or undercooked meat.
TORCH infections (TORCH complex) - a group of 4 viral and bacterial infections. TORCH infections include TO - (toxoplasmosis) toxoplasmosis, R (rubella) - rubella, C (cytomegalovirus) - cytomegalovirus infection, H (herpes) - herpes. 1971)
Why TORCH infections are dangerous for pregnancy
Herpes simple 1/2 type
- Primary infection with herpes simplex virus can result in:
- Violation of the course of pregnancy: polyhydramnios, termination of pregnancy, miscarriage
- Fetal pathology: intrauterine infection, spontaneous abortion, stillbirth
- Pathology of the newborn: congenital herpes, prematurity, low birth weight.
With a primary episode of herpes, the risk of transmission of infection to the fetus is up to 50%, with recurrent infection or asymptomatic course 0-4%
Toxoplasmosis
About 10-12% of women become infected with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and the risk of transmission to the fetus is 30-40%.
If the infection occurred in the I, II trimesters of pregnancy, the risk of spontaneous abortion and premature birth reaches 10-15%., Congenital toxoplasmosis up to 15-25%, while severe fetopathies are noted: microcephaly, hydrocephalus, chorioretinitis, hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia.
If the infection occurred in the third trimester of pregnancy, the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis is up to 90%, but the disease is asymptomatic in most cases.
Rubella
When infected with rubella before 16 weeks of gestation, the following often occur:
- Intrauterine fetal death
- Macro and microcephaly
- Gregg's triad: eye damage + deafness + developmental defects of the cardiovascular system
When infected after 16 weeks of gestation, the risk of congenital anomalies is significantly reduced.
Cytomegalovirus
Approximately 1% to 4% of pregnant women become infected with cytomegalovirus during pregnancy, and one third of them have intrauterine fetal infection.
Infection before 12 weeks leads to miscarriages and congenital malformations:
- Hydro or acephaly,
- Cerebral paralysis
- Damage to the organs of hearing and vision
Infection after 12 weeks manifests itself in the form of a generalized form of cytomegaly - hepatitis, pneumonia and retinitis.
Why pregnant women are tested for TORCH infections
The main task is to identify seronegative pregnant women - women who do not have protective antibodies of class G (IgG). These pregnant women should observe precautions for the entire period of pregnancy. Pregnant women with a primary infection should be monitored and treated by a gynecologist and infectious disease specialist.
How pregnant women are checked for TORCH infections
Testing of pregnant women for TORCH infection is carried out by detecting antibodies to infections in the blood serum using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The detection of the so-called "early" antibodies of class M and "late" antibodies of class G is important.
It is advisable to test for TORCH infection before a planned pregnancy. In Russia, a study on the TORCH complex is carried out at the first visit of a pregnant woman to an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Decoding the analysis for TORCH infection
Negative result - the number of detected antibodies is less than the reference values indicated in the column norm of the laboratory test form
Positive result - the number of antibodies is greater than the reference values indicated in the "norm" column of the laboratory test form
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Antibodies to diseases |
IgM |
IgG |
Interpretation (decoding) |
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Toxoplasmosis |
You do not have antibodies to toxoplasma and you are a seronegative pregnant woman.During pregnancy, you must strictly observe precautions - do not communicate with animals (cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents), subject meat and meat products to prolonged heat treatment, wash thoroughly with boiled water fruits and salads. |
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Most likely you are infected with Toxoplasma for up to 2 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research. |
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You are infected with toxplasmas for a period of 2 to 6 months.You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research |
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You have protective antibodies to toxoplasma. This is either non-sterile immunity or chronic latent course of toxoplasmosis. These conditions are not dangerous for the course of pregnancy and the fetus. |
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Rubella |
You do not have antibodies to rubella virus and you are a seronegative pregnant woman. During pregnancy, you must strictly observe precautions - to limit contact with children. |
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Most likely you are infected with the rubella virus for up to 1.5-2 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research. |
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You are infected with the rubella virus for a period of 1.5 to 5-6 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research |
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You have protective antibodies to rubella virus. This is either non-sterile immunity or chronic latent course of toxoplasmosis. These conditions are not dangerous for the course of pregnancy and the fetus. |
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Cytomegalovirus |
You do not have antibodies to cytomegalovirus and you are a seronegative pregnant woman. During pregnancy, you must strictly observe the following precautions: 1. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for 15-20 minutes, especially after changing diapers (pampers) in infants 2. Never kiss a child under 5 on the lips. 3. Provide separate dishes and cutlery for yourself and your young children. 4. If you work in childcare facilities (nurseries, kindergartens) during pregnancy, take a vacation or sharply limit contact with children. |
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| neg |
Most likely you are infected with cytomegalovirus for up to 1.5-2 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research. |
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| floor |
You are infected with cytomegalovirus for a period of 1.5 to 4-5 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research |
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| floor |
You have protective antibodies to cytomegalovirus. This is either non-sterile immunity or chronic latent course of toxoplasmosis. These conditions are not dangerous for the course of pregnancy and the fetus. |
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|
Herpes simplex |
You do not have antibodies to the herpes simplex virus and you are a seronegative pregnant woman. During pregnancy, you must strictly observe precautions: do not contact people with active manifestations of labial and genital herpes. |
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| neg |
Most likely you are infected with the herpes simplex virus for up to 1-1.5 months. You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research. |
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| floor |
You are infected with the herpes simplex virus for a period of 1.5 to 4-5 months.You need to consult a gynecologist and an infectious disease specialist for additional research |
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| floor |
You have protective antibodies to the herpes simplex virus. This is either non-sterile immunity or a chronic latent course of toxoplasmosis. These conditions are not dangerous for the course of pregnancy and the fetus. |
Where can I get more information
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TORCH infections (or TORCH) are a group of infectious diseases that pose a particular danger during pregnancy, as they can cause intrauterine infections in the fetus.
This abbreviation stands for the following:
T (toxoplasmosis) - toxoplasmosis O (other) - others (including syphilis, hepatitis B virus, HIV infection, mumps virus) R (rubella) - rubella C (cytomegalovirus, CMV) - cytomegalovirus (CMV) H(herpes simplex virus, HSV) - herpes simplex virus (HSV)Why are TORCH infections dangerous?
Toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes are especially dangerous if infection occurs during pregnancy. These four infections cross the placenta into the fetus and can lead to a missed pregnancy, miscarriage, intrauterine fetal death or serious developmental abnormalities in the unborn child.
What is a blood test for TORCH infection for?
A blood test for TORCH infection allows you to determine if a woman is immune to these diseases. This is very important at the planning stage of pregnancy or in the early stages of an already onset pregnancy.
Depending on the results of the examination for TORCH infection, the doctor informs whether the woman needs vaccination, gives recommendations on planning pregnancy and on the prevention of these diseases, if pregnancy has already begun.
Thanks to the timely diagnosis of torch infections, it was possible to significantly reduce the frequency of birth of children with developmental abnormalities caused by these diseases.
Who needs to be tested for TORCH infection?
Currently, screening for TORCH infection is not included in the list of mandatory medical examinations when planning pregnancy and early pregnancy. The doctor can prescribe this examination only if there is a suspicion of the presence of diseases of the torch complex.
Nevertheless, most experts are of the opinion that it is advisable to take a blood test for TORCH infection for every woman planning a pregnancy, even if she is feeling well and there are no signs of infections.
If the pregnancy has already occurred, then screening can be done before the 12th week of pregnancy. This study is very important, since the listed diseases can be asymptomatic, imperceptibly leading to severe malformations in the fetus.
How is the TORCH infection test performed?
Diagnostics for the TORCH complex of infections includes several blood tests:
- Blood test for IgG and IgM antibodies to toxoplasmosis
- Blood test for antibodies IgG and IgM to rubella
- Blood test for IgG and IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus
- Blood test for IgG and IgM antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2
Taking blood for analysis does not differ from the usual collection of blood from a vein. It is recommended to take the analysis on an empty stomach.
How to decipher the results of the analysis for TORCH infections?
The attending physician is responsible for decoding the results of the analysis for TORCH infection. If you wait a long time for an appointment with a doctor, and you can't wait to find out if everything is normal, you can use the data presented below.
Antibodies to toxoplasmosis
After receiving the results of the analysis for toxoplasmosis, you can meet one of the following 4 options:
- IgM antibodies to toxoplasma - negative
This means that your body has never met Toxoplasma, which means that you have no immunity to this disease. You can plan a pregnancy, however, during pregnancy you need to strictly follow everything.
If you are pregnant:Your body has never met Toxoplasma, which means that you have no immunity to this infection. You are healthy at the moment, but if you become infected with Toxoplasma during pregnancy, it can lead to serious consequences for the unborn child. You need to do everything to avoid infection during pregnancy.
Since toxoplasmosis during pregnancy can be asymptomatic, doctors recommend taking repeated tests for toxoplasma antibodies every month throughout pregnancy (if this is not possible, then at least once in every trimester of pregnancy).
- IgM antibodies to toxoplasma - negative
This means that you have had a history of toxoplasmosis and are immune to the disease. You can plan a pregnancy. Toxoplasma poses no threat to the unborn child.
If you are pregnant:up to 18 weeks, this means that you were infected before pregnancy and this infection does not threaten your unborn baby.
If you have taken this test for the first time during pregnancy 18 weeks or more, then there is a small risk that the infection occurred early in pregnancy. To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe an additional examination - an analysis for the avidity of antibodies to toxoplasma.
If the avidity is high, it means that you contracted toxoplasmosis a long time ago, and this infection does not pose a threat to the unborn child. Low to moderate avidity of antibodies to Toxoplasma during pregnancy may indicate that infection was recent and there is a potential risk of transmitting the infection to the fetus. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to toxoplasma - negative
This means that you have recently contracted toxoplasmosis, and you do not yet have strong immunity. Most experts are of the opinion that it is better to postpone pregnancy in this situation for at least 6 months. If you do not have any symptoms of toxoplasmosis, then you do not need treatment. If you are feeling unwell, you have symptoms of a cold, then you need to consult an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:IgM antibodies to toxoplasma during pregnancy may indicate that the infection occurred very recently (no more than 1-3 weeks ago). To exclude the possibility of false-positive results, it is recommended to take a blood test for antibodies again after 1-3 weeks. If the infection really took place, then in the re-analysis, not only IgM, but also IgG should appear. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to toxoplasma - positive
- IgM antibodies to toxoplasma - positive
This means that you recently contracted toxoplasmosis (2-6 months ago). It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for some time (usually it is recommended to postpone pregnancy for at least 6 months). If you do not have any symptoms of toxoplasmosis, then you do not need treatment. If you are feeling unwell, you have symptoms of a cold, then you need to consult an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:The presence of IgG and IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma during pregnancy may indicate a recent infection that is dangerous for the unborn child. To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe an additional examination - an analysis for the avidity of IgG antibodies to toxoplasma.
The high avidity of antibodies to toxoplasma during pregnancy indicates that the infection has occurred a long time ago and the fetus, most likely, is not in danger. Low and medium avidity of antibodies indicates that toxoplasmosis infection occurred in the last 12-18 weeks, and this can be dangerous for the unborn child. Cm.
Rubella antibodies
After receiving your rubella test results, you may come across one of the following 4 options:
If you are not yet pregnant but are planning to become pregnant:This means that you are not immune to rubella and that rubella can be dangerous for your unborn baby if you catch it during pregnancy. You need to make and postpone pregnancy for 1-3 months.
If you are pregnant:You are not immune to rubella, but you are healthy at the moment. Rubella is not a threat to your unborn baby if you avoid infection during pregnancy. Since the rubella vaccine cannot be given during pregnancy, you must strictly observe everything.
- Rubella IgM antibodies - negative
This means that you are immune to rubella and can start planning a pregnancy. This infection does not pose a threat to the unborn child.
If you are pregnant:You are immune to rubella and the infection is most likely not a threat to your unborn baby. To make sure everything is in order, your doctor may recommend an additional test - an IgG antibody test for rubella.
A high avidity indicates that the infection occurred a long time ago and rubella is not dangerous. Low rubella antibody avidity during pregnancy may indicate recent infection. Cm.
- Rubella IgG antibodies - negative
This means that you recently contracted rubella. It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:If you are positive for rubella IgM during pregnancy, then you have recently become infected and the risk of transmitting the infection to the fetus is high. Cm.
- Rubella IgG antibodies - positive
- Rubella IgM antibodies - positive
This means that you recently contracted rubella (2-6 months ago). It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:Positive IgG and IgM antibodies to rubella during pregnancy indicate a recent infection, which is fraught with consequences for the unborn child. Cm.
Antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV)
Having received the results of the analysis for cytomegalovirus, you can meet one of the following 4 options:
- IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - negative
This means that you are not immune to cytomegalovirus and this disease can be dangerous if you become infected during pregnancy. You must strictly follow all recommendations for the prevention of cytomegalovirus infection. Cm.
If you are pregnant:You are not immune to cytomegalovirus and you are healthy at the moment. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is not a threat to an unborn baby if you avoid infection during pregnancy. During 9 months of pregnancy, you need to strictly follow everything.
Since cytomegalovirus can be asymptomatic during pregnancy, doctors recommend retesting for CMV every 1-2 months throughout pregnancy.
- IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - positive
- IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - negative
This means that you are immune to cytomegalovirus and can start planning a pregnancy. Cytomegalovirus does not pose a threat to the unborn child.
If you are pregnant:If you have passed this test during pregnancy up to 12 weeks(in the first trimester of pregnancy), then the unborn child is not in danger. You are infected with cytomegalovirus, but your immune system keeps the infection under control, and the risk of infecting the fetus is extremely small.
If you have passed this test for the first time after 12 weeks pregnancy (in the second or third trimester), your doctor will recommend an additional test - an avidity test for IgG antibodies to CMV.
The high avidity of antibodies to cytomegalovirus during pregnancy means that the infection occurred a long time ago, and most likely nothing threatens the unborn child. Low or intermediate avidity of antibodies may indicate that the infection occurred in the past 18-20 weeks, which means there is a potential risk of transmitting this infection to the fetus. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - negative
- IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - positive
This means that you have recently contracted cytomegalovirus (no more than 2 months ago). It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor. Cm.
If you are pregnant:The appearance of IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus in the blood of a pregnant woman indicates a recent infection that can be dangerous for the unborn child. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - positive
- IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV, CMV) - positive
This means that you recently contracted cytomegalovirus (2-5 months ago), or you became infected a long time ago, but at the moment the cytomegalovirus is activated. It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:Positive IgG and IgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus during pregnancy can indicate either a recent infection, or that the infection occurred a long time ago, but at the moment CMV is activated. To clarify how high the risk of transmitting CMV to an unborn child is, the doctor will prescribe an additional examination - an analysis of the avidity of IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus.
The high avidity of antibodies to cytomegalovirus during pregnancy means that the infection occurred a long time ago and the risk that the virus will enter the fetus is extremely small. Low or intermediate avidity of antibodies during pregnancy may indicate that infection is recent and the risk of transmission to the fetus is high. Cm.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) antibodies
After receiving the results of the analysis for herpes, you can meet one of the following 4 options:
If you are not yet pregnant but are planning to become pregnant:This means that you are not immune to the herpes virus and that the disease can be dangerous if you catch it during pregnancy. You can plan a pregnancy, however, during pregnancy you need to strictly follow everything.
If you are pregnant:Your body has never met the herpes simplex virus and you are not immune to this virus. At the moment, you are healthy and herpes does not pose a threat to the unborn child until you contract herpes during pregnancy. Observe to avoid contamination.
- IgM antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV 1/2 or HSV 1/2) - negative
This means that you are immune to the herpes virus and can start planning a pregnancy. There is a risk that herpes is activated during pregnancy and penetrates the fetus, but it is very small.
If you are pregnant:You are infected with the herpes virus and you have immunity against this infection. There is a risk that the virus will enter the fetus during pregnancy, but it does not exceed 3%.
If you develop symptoms of herpes (a rash on the lips or genitals) during pregnancy, see your doctor right away. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV 1/2 or HSV 1/2) - negative
This means that you recently contracted herpes (no more than 4-6 weeks ago). It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:A positive IgM for herpes during pregnancy may indicate a recent infection that is dangerous to the unborn baby. To rule out the possibility of false-positive results, it is recommended to repeat the antibody test after 1-2 weeks. Cm.
- IgG antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV 1/2 or HSV 1/2) - positive
- IgM antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV 1/2 or HSV 1/2) - positive
This means that you have recently contracted herpes (1.5-5 months ago), or you have been infected a long time ago, but at the moment the infection has activated. It is better for you to postpone pregnancy planning for a while and seek help from an infectious disease doctor.
If you are pregnant:Positive IgG and IgM antibodies to herpes during pregnancy can indicate either a recent infection, or that the infection occurred a long time ago, but at the moment the infection has been activated. Your doctor may recommend antiviral medication. Cm.
