TORCH Infections

What are the treatments for the infection?

A treatment called immune globulin can be given to the mother or child in certain settings. This is a protein mixture that helps protect the mother or child after an exposure to the infection. For example, this treatment may be helpful for some pregnant women who are exposed to chickenpox. It is also used for babies that are delivered by women with hepatitis B.

Some affected infants can be given antibiotics, such as those with syphilis, herpes, or toxoplasma infections.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Vaccines may cause pain at the site of an injection if a pill form is not available. Allergic reactions may occur with vaccines and immune globulin. Antibiotics may sometimes cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, or liver or kidney damage.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

If TORCH infections are not prevented, then further treatment is aimed at any specific birth defects that are present. For example, eye surgery may help with vision problems, such as cataracts. Open-heart surgery can correct many defects caused by congenital heart disease. Other children may need special education or treatment for behavioral or emotional problems.

How is the infection monitored?

Children affected by one of the TORCH infections need close monitoring. This allows any problems that occur later in childhood to be caught early so that treatment can be started. For example, children with learning disabilities may benefit from early placement into special education classes.