Ocular Involvement in Congenital Infections – TORCH

Abstract

This review summarises the ophthalmological findings in congenital infections. Intrauterine infections are an important cause of childhood blindness. The most common infections are grouped under the acronym TORCH, which stands for Toxoplasma gondii, others, rubella, CMV, and herpes simplex. Overall, these infections are not very common in first-world countries during pregnancy, but are of particular importance because of the threat to vision. Diagnosis of infection or reactivation is a gynaecological challenge. However, ophthalmological examination of newborns can be appropriately targeted if the causative agent is known. The most important therapeutic agents used in the newborn are summarised.

Key words

newborn - congenital infection - ophthalmologic findings - treatment

Publication History

Received: 29 June 2023

Accepted: 14 September 2023

Article published online:
23 October 2023

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