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Congenital Syphilis and the Orthopaedic Perspective: A Case Report
Madison Craft1, Prince Ohene-Nyako2, David Yung-Ping Chong1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Insights
Congenital syphilis can present with skeletal abnormalities in infants, mimicking other bone diseases. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery and full limb function.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopaedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Congenital syphilis is a re-emerging infectious disease with significant public health implications.
- Skeletal manifestations in infants can be mistaken for other pediatric bone pathologies.
- Early recognition is vital for effective management and preventing long-term complications.
Case:
We report a case of an otherwise healthy 4-month-old male infant presenting with unexplained metaphyseal lucent bands and diaphyseal periosteal reactions in bilateral extremities upon radiograph, who was ultimately diagnosed with congenital syphilis. After subsequent workup and treatment, the patient had appropriate range of motion of all extremities within 2 weeks after discharge.
Conclusion:
The purpose of this report was to increase the awareness of the rising incidence of congenital syphilis in the United States and educate fellow orthopaedic surgeons on ways to differentiate the skeletal manifestations of congenital syphilis from other pathologies with significant bone involvement.
