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Stroke in pregnancy associated with syphilis.
Julie Bowring1, Mrinalini Mahto, Debashis Mandal
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West Middlesex University Hospital, Twickenham Road, Isleworth, Middlesex, UK. juliebowring@yahoo.co.uk
The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research
|July 1, 2008
Summary
Syphilis incidence is rising, potentially increasing congenital syphilis cases. Early diagnosis and treatment in pregnancy are crucial for maternal health and preventing adverse outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Rising syphilis incidence in developed nations poses risks to obstetrics and congenital syphilis.
- Syphilis is treatable, with antenatal screening being cost-effective and beneficial.
Observation:
- A rare case of meningovascular syphilis presented as a stroke in a woman in early pregnancy.
- Her partner was diagnosed with early latent syphilis concurrently.
Findings:
- The patient's stroke symptoms were consistent with meningovascular syphilis.
- Treatment resulted in the resolution of her neurological symptoms.
Implications:
- Despite routine antenatal screening in the UK, changing demographics and high-risk behaviors can lead to undetected syphilis.
- Vigilant screening and prompt management are essential to treat maternal syphilis and prevent congenital syphilis.
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