Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis continues be prevalent the world over even during this millennium. The global burden of syphilis infection is high, with an estimated 10.6 million cases occurring annually; and this is not only a health and pubic hazard; but is known to affect the pregnancy, fetus, newborn and children. Ten to 70% of the infected mothers, if untreated, give birth to children with congenital syphilis. Treatment of the infected mother during pregnancy can significantly reduce the chances of congenital syphilis and identifying and treating pregnant women with syphilis is a public health priority. 

Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted by the departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology at three different institutes; one an Indian Armed Forces hospital and two medical colleges over a period of three years. The study was primarily for antenatal cases and newborn babies; but known or diagnosed cases of syphilis from dermatology departments were also included in the study. The data related to pregnancy and syphilis were collected. 

Results and Observations: 8733 cases were registered as antenatal cases during this period. 3847 (43.8%) cases were primigravida’s and remaining 4886 (55.9%) were multigravidas. 7 cases were found to be positive by non-treponemal tests. The spouses of positive cases were also tested. One newborn baby had congenital syphilis and one mother had frank secondary syphilis, but her baby did not have any sign of congenital syphilis. 

Discussion: Syphilis is one of the sexually transmitted diseases; the causative organism being bacterium Treponema pallidum. Its transmission is possible from mother to baby during pregnancy or at birth, resulting in congenital syphilis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend all pregnant women be tested. Screening for syphilis during pregnancy is an ideal time to detect the disease early and prevent fetal affection. 

Conclusion: Syphilis is easily diagnosed with non-expensive tests available. Syphilis is completely curable by Penicillin, and transmission to baby is prevented. Efforts should be made at every level of health care to increase the awareness about the seriousness of syphilis in pregnancy. 

Keywords: Congenital Syphilis; Pregnancy; Penicillin; Treponema       

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