Bone abnormalities in congenital syphilis: A case report

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Congenital syphilis, a transplacental infection by Treponema pallidum, poses significant risks to newborns.
• Untreated maternal syphilis can lead to severe neonatal complications.
• Early detection and intervention are critical for managing congenital syphilis.

Observation:

• This case report details a preterm newborn (33 weeks) born to a mother with untreated gestational syphilis.
• The infant presented with positive serological tests for syphilis at birth.
• Radiographs of the long bones showed metaphyseal abnormalities indicative of metaphysitis.

Findings:

• Radiographic findings of metaphysitis were present in the newborn, despite the absence of overt clinical symptoms.
• Serological tests confirmed syphilis in the neonate.
• Bone abnormalities detected via X-ray suggest early-stage congenital syphilis.

Implications:

• Early radiological evaluation is crucial for diagnosing congenital syphilis in newborns, even without clinical signs.
• Radiographic imaging can identify bone changes associated with congenital syphilis, facilitating prompt diagnosis.
• Timely diagnosis through imaging aids in effective intervention and improved neonatal outcomes for congenital syphilis.