Integrated Statistical Evaluation of IgG/IgM Serostatus Patterns and Cross‑Infection Correlations among TORCH Pathogens in a Libyan Clinical Population

Abstract

TORCH infections, including Toxoplasma gondii (TOXO), Rubella virus (RUB), and Cytomegalovirus (CMV), remain a major public health concern due to their potential to cause severe outcomes in susceptible individuals. This cross-sectional analytical study evaluated seroprevalence, age- and gender-specific patterns, and co-infection correlations of TORCH pathogens among 61 participants attending Al-Bayda Teaching Medical Center, Libya, in 2025. Venous blood samples were analyzed using chemiluminescent immunoassays to detect IgG and IgM antibodies. Results revealed that TOXO IgG seropositivity was 26.23% with no IgM positivity, indicating low historical exposure and absence of acute infection. Rubella IgG and IgM positivity were 85.25% and 60.66%, respectively, highlighting widespread immunity alongside substantial recent infection. CMV IgG and IgM positivity were 78.69% and 62.30%, respectively, demonstrating persistent circulation and ongoing infections. Correlation analyses identified moderate associations between IgG and IgM within each pathogen and notable co-occurrence of recent Rubella and CMV infections (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). Age significantly influenced TOXO and CMV serostatus, whereas Rubella immunity was largely age-independent. No significant gender differences were observed. These findings provide a comprehensive epidemiological profile, emphasizing the importance of integrated monitoring and targeted public health interventions