Syphilis, a condition that can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or birth, poses significant health risks to newborns.
In this article, you’ll learn about the signs to look out for in infants with syphilis.
Syphilis in newborns
Syphilis in newborns, commonly referred to as congenital syphilis, is a serious condition caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It’s a potentially life-threatening infection that your infant can acquire during pregnancy or delivery.
How is syphilis transmitted to newborns?
Syphilis is transmitted to newborns primarily in two ways.
From an infected mother during pregnancy
If you’re pregnant and have syphilis, you can infect your unborn baby through the placenta.
Exposure during delivery
Another route of transmission is direct exposure during childbirth if you have genital sores caused by syphilis.
What are the signs of syphilis in newborns?
The signs of syphilis in newborns can vary, but key indicators include:
- A rash on the palms and soles, often copper-colored
- Fever
- Irritability that exceeds usual infant fussiness
- Lack of weight gain
- Failure to thrive despite regular feeding
- Swollen liver and spleen
- Jaundice
- Persistent runny nose (Snuffles)
Why is early detection important?
Early detection of syphilis in newborns prevents long-term complications and protects your child’s health. If your healthcare provider can identify syphilis early, your child can receive timely treatment, which is highly effective in mitigating the risks associated with this infection.
Without early intervention, newborns face a higher risk of developing severe health issues, such as:
- Neurological problems
- Deafness
- Bone deformities
- Vision problems
Early detection not only addresses your newborn’s immediate health but also ensures a better quality of life by preventing potentially debilitating lifelong conditions.
How is syphilis in newborns diagnosed?
Syphilis in newborns is diagnosed primarily through blood tests that look for specific antibodies against the syphilis bacterium. These tests confirm the presence of the infection.
Additionally, your healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination to identify characteristic signs of the disease or other symptoms indicative of syphilis.
What treatments are available for newborns with syphilis?
For newborns diagnosed with syphilis, the primary treatment is antibiotic therapy, usually with penicillin. Administered intravenously, this treatment approach is highly effective in eradicating the infection and preventing the progression of the disease.
What are the long-term effects of untreated syphilis in newborns?
Untreated syphilis in newborns can lead to severe and long-term health complications. These include:
- Neurological problems such as seizures or developmental delays
- Deafness, possibly resulting in speech and language delays
- Bone deformities, particularly in the teeth, skull, and long bones
- Vision problems, including blindness
How can syphilis in newborns be prevented?
To prevent this, do prenatal screening when you’re still pregnant. Treatment of infected mothers during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of transmitting the infection to the baby.
Additionally, you should do follow-up testing and treatment for babies after birth to see that any potential infection is addressed promptly.
Frequently asked questions
What are the initial signs of syphilis in newborns?
Initial signs of syphilis in newborns include rash, fever, irritability and failure to thrive. Newborns may also exhibit snuffles, which is a persistent nasal discharge.
Can syphilis be transmitted from mother to baby?
Yes, syphilis can be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. This condition, known as congenital syphilis, poses serious health risks to the newborn.
How is syphilis diagnosed in newborns?
Syphilis in newborns is diagnosed through physical examination, blood tests to detect the bacteria’s presence, and imaging tests to identify any organ or bone damage.
Key takeaway
Syphilis in newborns, or congenital syphilis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. If you’re pregnant, do a regular prenatal screening for early detection and treatment to protect the health and future of your unborn child.
