Viral and protozoal infections are often suspected as causes of neonatal illness or congenital anomalies. The TORCH titer has traditionally been the foremost diagnostic tool in this context, but it is now becoming increasingly clear that this tool is inadequate, partly for conceptual reasons, but also because of the often uncritical way in which it is used. During a recent critical review of our routines and practices for diagnosis and treatment of neonatal infections we also revised our approach to the diagnosis and treatment of suspected pre- or perinatally acquired viral, spirochetal, and protozoal illnesses. The resulting guidelines, originally intended for our house staff, are presented here.
Notes
Comment In: Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 1993 Aug 10;113(18):22838362399