TORCH Test Price in India

TORCH test is used to evaluate infections in new-born babies and pregnant women. TORCH is an acronym for Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex and HIV. It is sometimes also called as TORCHS wherein the additional "S" represents syphilis. The test can detect various infections which can be passed down from mother to child during pregnancy and delivery. Hence, the test is recommended by doctors to every pregnant women as the fetus is more sensitive to infection in the initial 3-4 months of pregnancy. It is important that the new-born remains free of infection to avoid any health complications as their health is quite delicate at birth.

Modern women have become aware of the precautions that are supposed to be taken during pregnancy. They are also bombarded with set of advices from older women. Hence, today the chances of infection to baby during pregnancy have reduced tremendously. But, still it is important that pregnant women undergo TORCH test to detect any sort of infection or disorder that has developed in fetus.

Most of the maternity and diagnostic centers in India provide the facility of TORCH test without burning hole in the pocket. To make the process of selecting the right diagnostic center for the test simpler, we have compiled a list of hospitals where this facility is available. We have also enlisted the cost estimation of the test for your convenience.

TORCH Test Cost in Top 7 Cities

As mentioned earlier, Toxoplasmosis (disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii parasite), Rubella (contagious viral infection wherein neck lymph nodes enlarge and cause distinctive red rash), Cytomegalovirus (viral disease), Herpes simplex (viral disease that causes contagious sores around mouth or genitals) and HIV (condition that affects immune system and reduces resistance power), are those infections and diseases that are detected in TORCH test. These diseases might not produce any sort of symptoms in initial stages, but as they progress, symptoms become quite distinctive. Watch out for any rash or any abnormal coloring on baby's body. If you notice any abnormalities during pregnancy or on your child's body, better fix an appointment with your doctor as early as possible to reduce complications.

TORCH Test Procedure

To perform TORCH test, tiny blood sample is taken from finger. The area is cleaned beforehand so as to prevent any occurrence of infection. A needle or a small instrument like lancet is used to prick finger and draw blood. The blood sample will either be collected in tube or test strip or in a small container and will be sent to laboratory for analysis to detect presence of any disease causing virus or parasite.

The test is uber safe and does not cause any harm. One might feel little prickling sensation when blood is withdrawn, but that is just for a few seconds. A ball of cotton will be given to stop blood flow. There as such no rules or precautions to be taken before and after the test. However, it is important that you let your doctor know about the medications you are taking and diseases you are suffering from.

Interpreting Test Results:

Test report will reveal “positive” or “negative” result. Positive result suggests that a particular disease causing pathogen (IgG or IgM antibodies) is present and negative result indicates no such disease causing virus has been found and you don't need to worry. Positive results will further be evaluated to confirm presence of the infection and commence treatment accordingly.

Tips to prevent occurrence of infection in pregnant mothers:

There are certain precautions every pregnant lady has to follow to prevent infection to herself and her child. Let us explore these methods:

It is indispensable that you follow strict hygiene rules. Wash your hands every time before you eat, after visiting toilet, after handling pets, touching raw meat or unwashed vegetables and after coming in contact with dirt and dust.
Avoid sharing eating plates and drinking utensils with children.
Avoid consuming unpasteurized milk, half-cooked meats and outside street food which is exposed to dirt.
Keep your house clean of rodents and insects.
Whenever you clean your house, make sure you are wearing gloves and face mask to avoid coming in direct contact with dirt and grime.
Drink plenty of fluids like coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices. Do not consume canned juices as they contain high level of sodium and sugar.
Foods rich in vitamin C like amla (Indian gooseberry), oranges, lemons, guava etc. increase immune power and give the body required strength to combat infection.
Avoid coming in contact with people who are already suffering from infection and viral diseases.
Regular vaccinations help a lot in preventing infections.

In case of any suspected infection symptoms, better visit doctor as early as possible. Diagnosing infection in early stages will prevent complexities and make the treatment work effectively. Pregnant women should take proper care and enjoy their phase.