Which infection is not included in the traditional TORCH classification?

The traditional TORCH classification is a group of infections that can be transmitted from the mother to the fetus during pregnancy, which may lead to significant consequences for the developing baby. The acronym stands for Toxoplasmosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes simplex virus (HSV), with each infection listed having the potential for serious pregnancy complications.

Chlamydia, while it can have an impact on pregnancy and neonatal health, is not part of the TORCH complex. The infections traditionally classified under TORCH specifically highlight those that are well-documented in their effects on congenital conditions and perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, and Herpes simplex virus are well-known components of the TORCH group. These infections are associated with specific teratogenic effects, meaning they can cause developmental abnormalities in the fetus if a mother becomes infected during pregnancy.

Recognizing that Chlamydia, although significant in terms of maternal and neonatal health, does not fall within the traditional TORCH classification helps to clarify the framework used by healthcare professionals in assessing risks associated with infections during pregnancy.