Lecture Notes: TORCH Infections

Overview

• Topic: TORCH Infections
• Focus: Pathogens that cross the blood-placental barrier causing issues in developing fetuses.

Blood-Placental Barrier

• Functions similar to the blood-brain barrier.
• Aims to protect the fetus from pathogens.
• Some pathogens can cross this barrier, known as TORCH infections.

TORCH Infections

• T: Toxoplasmosis

  • Caused by Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoal infection.
  • Found in cat feces, reason for pregnant women to avoid kitty litter.

• O: Other Infections

  • Includes syphilis, chickenpox, hepatitis B, and HIV.
  • Also includes erythema infectiosum, characterized by a facial rash ("slapped cheeks").
  • Known as "fifth disease" due to its place on a historical list of childhood skin rashes.

• R: Rubella (German Measles)

  • Can lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).
  • Causes deafness, cataracts, heart, and brain problems.

• C: Cytomegalovirus

  • Generally mild but poses a risk during pregnancy due to immune suppression.
  • Immune suppression is natural in pregnancy to avoid attacking the fetus.

• H: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

  • Includes HSV types 1 and 2, affecting mouth and genitals.

Additional Pathogen: Listeria

• Listeriosis: Caused by Listeria monocytogenes.
• Can lead to spontaneous abortion.
• Pregnant women advised to avoid deli meats and foods potentially contaminated with Listeria.

Important Notes

• Pregnant women are immunocompromised to prevent the immune system from attacking the fetus.
• Some autoimmune conditions may improve during pregnancy due to this immune suppression.

Conclusion

• Awareness and avoidance of these pathogens are crucial during pregnancy to protect fetal development.

This lecture emphasizes the importance of understanding and preventing TORCH infections to ensure healthy fetal development.