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Syphilis in Neonates and Infants

Alexandra K Medoro1, Pablo J Sánchez1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RB3, WB5245, Columbus, OH 43205-2664, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, RB3, WB5245, Columbus, OH 43205-2664, USA.

Clinics in Perinatology
|May 25, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Congenital syphilis, a preventable disease, causes significant fetal and neonatal harm globally. Despite historical knowledge, maternal and infant syphilis cases are rising in the US, necessitating updated management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Syphilis in neonates and infants is a major global cause of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
  • Maternal and congenital syphilis rates are increasing in the United States, despite extensive experience with the disease.
  • Congenital syphilis poses a significant, preventable public health challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the optimal management of maternal and congenital syphilis.
  • To guide healthcare professionals in understanding vertical transmission, clinical signs, diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up.
  • To address the rising incidence of syphilis in infants and neonates.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on vertical transmission of syphilis.
  • Synthesis of current clinical guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.
  • Analysis of follow-up protocols for congenital syphilis.

Main Results:

  • Congenital syphilis is a preventable cause of significant infant mortality and morbidity.
  • Increasing rates of maternal and congenital syphilis in the US highlight a need for improved prevention and management.
  • Optimal management requires a comprehensive understanding of transmission, clinical presentation, and timely intervention.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of congenital syphilis is crucial for reducing infant morbidity and mortality.
  • Healthcare providers need updated guidance on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of syphilis in pregnant individuals and infants.
  • Public health efforts must focus on preventing the rising incidence of this treatable infection.

Keywords:
Congenital syphilisInfantMaternal syphilisReverse sequence syphilis screeningSyphilisSyphilis screening

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