TORCH Test in Chennai
Planning a pregnancy, or asked to screen after a scan finding or a previous loss? The TORCH test in Chennai looks for four infections that can affect a developing baby, checking both IgG and IgM antibodies so your doctor can tell past immunity from a recent infection. That distinction is the whole point of the test, and it is where our obstetric team spends time with you on the result.
TORCH Test, booked in 30 seconds
Leave your details and our care team calls you back shortly. You are also welcome to walk in any morning.
Thank you. Our care team will call you back shortly to confirm your torch test slot.
What is a TORCH Test?
The TORCH test is a group of blood tests that check for certain infections which can affect a developing baby during pregnancy. The TORCH test in Chennai looks for antibodies against toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus and other related infections. Early detection helps doctors assess any risk and take appropriate steps to protect mother and baby. At Unittas Hospital, this test is carried out with care and clear guidance so families receive reliable information at an important time.
TORCH is an acronym for a set of infections:
- T – Toxoplasmosis
- O – Other infections (such as syphilis, varicella/chickenpox or parvovirus in some panels)
- R – Rubella (German measles)
- C – Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- H – Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
The test measures two types of antibodies in the blood: IgM and IgG. IgM antibodies often suggest a recent or active infection. IgG antibodies usually indicate past exposure or immunity. The panel is commonly requested for women who are planning a pregnancy, during early pregnancy, or when a newborn shows signs that could be linked to a congenital infection.
Why Might You Need a TORCH Test?
Doctors may advise this test if you:
- Are planning a pregnancy or are in the early stages of pregnancy
- Have had a miscarriage, stillbirth or previous pregnancy complications
- Develop symptoms of infection during pregnancy (such as fever, rash or flu-like illness)
- Have been exposed to someone with one of these infections
- Are a newborn with unexplained growth problems, hearing or vision concerns, or other features that raise the possibility of a congenital infection
The results help guide further checks and management decisions.
How is the TORCH Test in Pregnancy Done?
The test is a straightforward blood sample:
- A small amount of blood is taken from a vein in the arm (or a heel prick in newborns).
- The sample is sent to the laboratory.
- Antibodies for the TORCH group of infections are measured.
Results are usually available within one to two working days, depending on the laboratory.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation or fasting is normally required. You can eat and drink as usual. Inform your doctor about any recent illnesses, vaccinations or medicines you are taking. Follow any specific instructions given for your appointment.
Understanding Your TORCH Test Results
Results are reported for each infection as positive or negative for IgM and IgG antibodies. The TORCH test normal range is generally interpreted based on whether these antibodies are detected, but results should always be assessed in the clinical context.
A positive result does not automatically mean the baby is affected. Your doctor may arrange additional tests and will explain the findings and next steps clearly.
| Antibody Result | General Meaning |
|---|---|
| IgM negative, IgG negative | No evidence of past or recent infection |
| IgM negative, IgG positive | Past exposure or immunity (usually lower risk) |
| IgM positive | Possible recent or active infection; further tests may be needed |
| Both IgM and IgG positive | Recent infection or reactivation; specialist review recommended |
Reference ranges vary between laboratories. Always read your report against the range printed on it, and with your doctor.
Why Choose Unittas Hospital for TORCH Test?
At Unittas Hospital, our team offers clear guidance before the test and careful explanation of the results afterwards. With convenient locations in Tambaram and OMR Kelambakkam, flexible timings and ready access to experienced obstetric and paediatric specialists when needed, you receive supportive, patient-centred care throughout.
Looking for reliable testing during pregnancy? Schedule your TORCH test in pregnancy at Unittas Hospital and get clear guidance from our experienced healthcare team.
Further reading: managing fever during pregnancy and the different types of antenatal scans.
Explore more tests
TORCH test questions
No. Fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally unless other tests that need fasting are ordered at the same time.
It is often done in early pregnancy or as part of preconception planning. Your doctor will advise the most suitable timing based on your history.
It may indicate a recent or active infection. Further tests are usually needed to confirm the timing and assess any risk to the baby.
In most cases, yes; it suggests past exposure or vaccination and usually indicates lower risk of a new infection during pregnancy. Your doctor will interpret this for each specific infection.
Yes. It may be requested if a baby shows signs that could be linked to a congenital infection.
It is a standard blood sample. Most people feel only a brief sting when the needle is inserted.
Results are commonly available within one to two working days.
Some infections can be managed with specific medicines or close monitoring. Your doctor will discuss the options if an infection is confirmed.
A normal result is reassuring regarding these particular infections, but many other factors influence pregnancy outcome. Regular antenatal care remains important.
It is not always routine for every pregnancy. Doctors request it based on individual risk factors, symptoms or local guidelines.
Yes. Previous vaccination (for example against rubella) can produce IgG antibodies. Always tell your doctor about your vaccination history.
A positive IgM suggests a recent or active infection, so your doctor will usually repeat the test, add confirmatory testing and discuss what it means for your pregnancy before any decision is made.
The TORCH panel cost may vary depending on the number of infections tested, the laboratory, and the type of testing required.
The panel is primarily used in pregnancy and newborn assessment. Men may have individual tests for some of these infections if clinically indicated.
Good hygiene, careful food handling (especially with meat and cat litter), hand washing, and ensuring appropriate vaccinations before pregnancy can help lower risk.
All diagnostic tests at Unittas
Visit our Chennai labs
Both branches run the same NABH grade lab. Walk in during clinic hours, or call us to book your visit.
Tambaram
7, Duraiswamy Reddy Street, West Tambaram, Chennai 600045
Mon to Sat, 8 am to 8 pm. Sun, 9 am to 1 pm.
OMR Kelambakkam
141/1, Kazhipattur Village, OMR Main Rd, Kelambakkam 603103
Mon to Sat, 8 am to 8 pm. Sun, 9 am to 1 pm.
Screen before it matters, not after.
Book a TORCH panel at Unittas and review IgG and IgM results with our obstetric team.
Book: TORCH Test
Simple blood test, no fasting, IgG and IgM report in one to two days. Our care team calls you back shortly.
Thank you. Our care team will call you back shortly to confirm your torch test slot.