Which criterion BEST differentiates congenital rubella syndrome from other TORCH infections?
- A Sensorineural hearing loss with cardiac defects (PDA, pulmonary artery stenosis) and cataracts ✓
- B Periventricular calcifications on brain imaging
- C Thrombocytopenic purpura at birth
- D Hepatosplenomegaly with jaundice
Correct answer: A. Sensorineural hearing loss with cardiac defects (PDA, pulmonary artery stenosis) and cataracts
Explanation
The classic triad of congenital rubella syndrome (Gregg's triad) is sensorineural hearing loss, cardiac defects (PDA and pulmonary artery stenosis being most characteristic), and eye defects (cataracts, glaucoma, retinopathy). Periventricular calcifications are characteristic of CMV. Thrombocytopenia and hepatosplenomegaly occur in multiple TORCH infections. The cardiac specificity (pulmonary artery stenosis) and cataracts together are most distinctive of rubella.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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