The Torch Screen tests for past or current exposure to four infections, toxoplasma, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex, that are usually mild but can affect an unborn baby if caught for the first time during pregnancy. It suits anyone planning a pregnancy who wants to check their immunity beforehand, or a doctor investigating symptoms suggestive of one of these infections. The panel costs £257.50 plus a £50 blood-draw fee, with results in 2 days. Walk in or book online at 117a Harley Street, seven days a week.
The Torch Screen is most often requested by people planning a pregnancy, since confirming immunity to rubella and checking exposure to toxoplasma and CMV beforehand can help a doctor advise on precautions to take.
It is also used to investigate symptoms such as glandular-fever-like illness, swollen glands or an unexplained rash, where one of these four infections is a possible cause.
Some people request it after possible exposure, such as contact with someone diagnosed with rubella or after handling cat litter or raw meat without the usual precautions, to understand their immune status.
Fasting is not needed for this profile, so you can attend at any time of day. Most people do not need to make any special preparation, but if your doctor has given you specific instructions, follow those instead.
A positive IgG result to any of these four infections usually means past exposure and, for most people, established immunity, while a positive IgM result can suggest a more recent infection and needs prompt clinical review, particularly in pregnancy.
These results are not a standalone diagnosis. Timing matters, and a doctor will often want to repeat testing or add further tests before confirming whether an infection is current, past, or a false signal.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy and any of these results are unclear or suggest recent infection, see a doctor promptly to discuss what it means and what monitoring, if any, is advised.
If you are planning a pregnancy, the pre-pregnancy check at Gynae Clinic covers this and other relevant tests alongside a doctor's assessment.
Written by Mr Stephen Lingam. Reviewed by Dr Penny Sheehan (GMC 6056535) on 24/09/2026.
It checks your exposure and immunity to toxoplasma, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex, four infections that are usually mild but relevant to check before or during pregnancy.
It is most commonly requested by people planning a pregnancy or already pregnant, and by doctors investigating symptoms that could relate to one of these four infections.
Results are typically available within 2 days of your blood being taken at 117a Harley Street.
Not necessarily. A positive IgG result usually reflects past exposure and immunity, while a positive IgM result needs a doctor's review to work out whether it points to a recent infection.