Routine TORCH screening is not warranted in neonates with subependymal cysts

Abstract 

Background

Congenital infections are associated with a wide variety of clinical symptoms, including subependymal cysts (SEC).

Objective

To determine the co-occurrence of SEC and congenital infections, as diagnosed by TORCH serologic tests and/or cytomegalovirus (CMV) urine culture.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all neonates admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit from 1998 to 2009 in whom SEC were detected on cranial ultrasound and TORCH serologic tests and/or CMV urine cultures were performed.

Results

Fifty-nine neonates fulfilled the inclusion criteria. TORCH serologic tests were performed in 69% (41/59) of cases. Urine CMV culture was performed in 68% (40/59) of cases. None of the neonates tested positive for IgM Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella and Herpes simplex virus. Positive CMV IgM titers and/or a positive urine CMV culture were detected in 2% (1/59) of neonates.

Conclusion

The co-occurrence of TORCH congenital infections in infants with SEC is rare. Routine TORCH screening in neonates with SEC does not seem warranted.

Keywords: Subependymal cysts, Congenital infection, TORCH serologic testing, Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus, Neonate, Cranial ultrasound