A nurse is educating a pregnant client about TORCH infections. Which of the following TORCH infections can be transmitted to the fetus and cause congenital abnormalities?

A. Malaria: Although malaria can cross the placenta and cause complications like low birth weight or miscarriage, it is not classified under the TORCH group of infections. TORCH specifically includes infections known to cause congenital abnormalities. B. Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that may cause preterm labor but is not part of the TORCH group. It does not typically result in congenital anomalies in the fetus when transmitted during pregnancy. C. HIV: HIV can be transmitted from mother to fetus, but it is not included in the TORCH acronym. While HIV poses serious risks, it is managed differently and is not primarily linked to structural congenital defects. D. Rubella: Rubella is a key TORCH infection and is highly teratogenic, especially in the first trimester. It can lead to congenital rubella syndrome, causing deafness, cataracts, heart defects, and developmental delays in the fetus.