Torch 5 Antibodies IgM ELISA Blood Test is used to detect the presence of IgM antibodies against any five parameters or suggestive infections included in the panel in the blood. This test helps to detect any 5 infections included in the panel that may occur in pregnant women (perinatal infections).
TORCH is an acronym for a group of infections that can occur in pregnant women. These perinatal infections may cause birth defects in their newborns. TORCH, sometimes also called as TORCHS, which stands for toxoplasmosis, other (HIV, viral hepatitis, varicella, parvovirus), rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and syphilis.
Antibodies are produced when any foreign substance or virus or bacteria enters into the body. Detection of antibodies in the blood may indicate the presence of infections. This test screen for the IgM antibodies. IgM antibodies are detected when there is an acute infection.
This test is performed in pregnant women to detect the presence of any five suggestive infections included in the panel. Early identification and treatment of such perinatal infections may prevent birth defects in newborns. This test is performed as part of a routine test in women during her first prenatal visit. In pregnant women, your doctor may ask you to perform this test if he suspects any infections or if you exhibit suggestive symptoms of the infections included in the panel.
This test is also recommended to screen newborns for infections or infants who show any signs or suggestive symptoms of the infections included in the panel. However, in case of a positive result, your doctor may ask to perform a few more additional tests to confirm the type of infection.
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Torch 5 Antibodies IgM. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Torch 5 Antibodies IgM.
No specific preparation is required for this test.
If the test results are positive for pregnant women or detect the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood, it may indicate that you are likely to have a current or recent infection covered in the screening. In newborns or infants, the positive result may indicate a current infection. In case of a positive result, your doctor may ask to perform a few more additional tests to confirm the type of infection.
If the test results are negative in pregnant women, newborns, or infants; it may indicate that it is unlikely to have an infection. If your doctor strongly suspects any infections, even after negative results, other tests for the suspected infection will be performed.
Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments or further diagnostic tests.
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