Why was my wife advised a TORCH test?

Q: My 32 years old wife has been suggested a TORCH 8 test by her doctor. What is TORCH 8 test? Why it is done before conception? If TB test result comes negative then is it necessary to do TORCH 8 test? Does it affect conception?

A:TORCH test needs to be negative or the titres reducing so as to be able to plan the pregnancy. The test is for testing for toxoplasmosis, syphilis, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes virus infections. TB test is for tuberculosis infection. The treatment given to a patient is for the test that comes positive. It varies depending on the titres, clinical picture and past pregnancy history. Ideally, the treatment is given before planning the pregnancy. However, if it test comes positive for the first time during pregnancy, then it is required to be managed accordingly by assessing the ultrasound and blood test titres.