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Infection Testing

Torch Panel IgM Extended Test

The Torch Panel IgM Extended Test detects infections (Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes Simplex 1 & 2) that can affect pregnancy. Early detection helps manage risks for mother and baby.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
3 mL (1.5 mL minimum) serum collected in an SST tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 7,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Torch Panel IgM Extended Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Pregnant women
  • ✓Women planning pregnancy
  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of TORCH infections (e.g., fever, rash, swollen glands)
  • ✓History of miscarriage or stillbirth
  • ✓Exposure to known TORCH infections
  • ✓Prenatal screening
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Detects recent or active infections (Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2) that can impact pregnancy outcomes. Helps guide management and treatment decisions.
The Torch Panel IgM Extended Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify specific infections that can pose risks during pregnancy. The acronym 'TORCH' represents Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes Simplex viruses (types 1 and 2). These infections can potentially lead to serious health complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. Early detection through this test allows for timely management and mitigation of potential health issues.

This test specifically measures the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood for the following infections: - Toxoplasma IgM - Rubella IgM - Cytomegalovirus IgM - Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgM - Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgM

Expectant mothers or women planning to conceive are advised to consider this test, particularly if they have symptoms or risk factors such as recent exposure to infections, fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, or a history of pregnancy complications.

Taking this test offers benefits including early detection of potentially harmful infections, guidance for medical interventions, and informed decision-making regarding prenatal care. Results indicate the presence or absence of IgM antibodies. A positive result may suggest a recent or active infection. It is crucial to discuss your results with a healthcare provider for accurate interpretation and guidance.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
Sample3 mL (1.5 mL minimum) serum collected in an SST tube.
MethodologyImmunoassay (specific method may vary, confirm with the laboratory).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects IgM antibodies, which indicate a recent or current infection. It may not detect past infections or infections in their early stages. False positives or negatives can occur. Results must be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

The TORCH panel tests for Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes Simplex Virus types 1 and 2.
These infections can cause serious health problems for the developing baby if contracted during pregnancy. Early detection allows for management.
A positive IgM result may indicate a recent or current infection. It is important to discuss this with your doctor.
No special preparation or fasting is required for this test.
A blood sample is required for this test.
We have branches across Kenya, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, and offer home sample collection services.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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