The TORCH panel is a diagnostic test used to screen for several infectious agents that can cause congenital infections in newborns. TORCH is an acronym that stands for Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Herpes simplex virus (HSV), and other pathogens such as syphilis, varicella-zoster virus (VZV), parvovirus B19, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

This panel helps identify maternal infections that can be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy, potentially leading to serious complications such as birth defects, developmental delays, and neurological impairments. By testing for antibodies or genetic material associated with these pathogens, healthcare providers can diagnose and monitor infections in pregnant women and their newborns.

The TORCH panel typically involves a combination of serological tests, molecular assays, and viral culture techniques to detect the presence of specific antibodies, antigens, or nucleic acids associated with each pathogen. Results from the panel can aid in guiding treatment decisions and implementing appropriate interventions to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

In summary, the TORCH panel is a valuable tool in prenatal care, allowing healthcare providers to screen for congenital infections and provide timely interventions to protect the health and well-being of both the mother and her unborn child.