Specific IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma, rubella, cytomegalovirus
and herpes simplex (TORCH agents) were investigated in 32 infants and
children with unexplained mental retardation (MR) and their mothers. 16
mentally normal infants and children of the same age group and their mothers
were chosen as controls. Specific Toxoplasma IgG antibodies were 43.75% for
MR cases and 37.5% for their mothers. Six (18.75%) mothers gave history of
eating raw meat and canned food, while 8 (25%) had pet cats. 56.25% of the
MR cases, and 81.25% of their mothers were positive to specific rubella IgG
antibodies. 75% of MR cases and 81.25% of their mothers were positive for
CMV specific IgG antibodies. Also, 18.75% of the MR cases and 25% of their
mothers showed positivity to herpes simplex specific IgG antibodies. 93.75%
showed positivity to one or more of the mentioned pathogenic agents. |
