Abstract
It is difficult in most cases to differentiate clinically among perinatal infections associated with Toxoplasma (To), Rubella (R), Cytomegalovirus (C) and Herpes simplex virus, type 1 or 2 (H). To evaluate this problem, sera submitted to CDC from infants (<2 yrs.) with various abnormalities were tested for all agents in the ToRCH complex, besides those requested by the physician. Antibodies to To, R and C were measured by conventional technics, and antibodies to H type 1 and 2 by microneutralization and IgM fluorescent antibody tests. Interpretation of results were complicated by such factors as prior immunization, blood transfusions and the possible acquisition of antibodies either transplacentally or from a postnatal infection. Nevertheless, serological findings suggested perinatal infection with the ToRCH agents in 61 of 192 cases (37%). The type of involvement associated with individual agents is presented in the table:
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Nahmias, A., Walls, K., Stewart,, J. et al. The ToRCH complex-perinatal infections associated with toxoplasma and rubella, cytomegol- and herpes simplex viruses. Pediatr Res 5, 405–406 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197108000-00144
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197108000-00144
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