Reported Neurologic Manifestations Among Persons With Syphilis by Stage of Infection-12 States, 2019-2022

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Neurosyphilis Epidemiology
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Syphilis is a complex sexually transmitted infection caused by *Treponema pallidum*.
• Neurosyphilis, a severe manifestation, can affect the central nervous system.
• Recent trends in neurosyphilis require updated epidemiological understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends in reported neurologic manifestations of syphilis.
• To identify demographic patterns and risk factors associated with neurosyphilis.
• To underscore the clinical importance of recognizing neurosyphilis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized national case-based surveillance data from 2019-2022.
• Analyzed reported cases of syphilis with documented neurologic involvement.
• Examined data across various demographic groups and HIV status.

Main Results:

• A notable increase in reported neurologic manifestations of syphilis was observed from 2019 to 2022.
• Neurologic symptoms occurred in individuals with both early and late-stage syphilis.
• Manifestations were present across diverse demographic populations and in individuals with and without HIV co-infection.

Conclusions:

• The rising incidence of neurosyphilis highlights a critical public health concern.
• Neurologic syphilis affects a broad spectrum of patients, irrespective of stage or HIV status.
• Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for neurologic signs and symptoms in all syphilis patients.