Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Procedures for In Vitro Cultivation of Treponema pallidum, the Syphilis Spirochete
Published on: January 24, 2025
Intravenous penicillin for antenatal syphilotherapy
H L Galan1, P M Yandell, A B Knight
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Texas A&M University Health Science Center Scott and White Clinic and Memorial Hospital, 2401 S. 31st St. Temple TX 76508 USA.
Abstract:
A 21 year old woman (G(2) P(0101)) of 24 weeks gestation presented with syphilis of unknown duration. Sonography revealed fetal hydrops and placental thickening. Weekly intramuscular injections of 2.4 million U Bicillin for 3 weeks was initiated as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Repeat sonogram 1 week after starting treatment revealed increased ascites and a new pericardial effusion. Due to the worsening fetal condition, therapy was altered and the patient was admitted for IV penicillin. She received a continuous infusion of 18 million U penicillin G daily for 10 days. Serial sonograms showed improvement offetal ascites and pericardial effusion with 10 days of IV therapy, and complete resolution of hydrops was noted within 3 weeks. The fetus was born at term with no stigmata of congenital syphilis on newborn exam, and laboratory tests suggested adequate treatment in utero.
Related Concept Videos
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Production of Antibiotics
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management
Diphtheria
Combined Effects of Drugs: Synergism
Such synergistic combinations...

