Endemic treponematosis: review and update

Abstract

Despite major efforts to eradicate these disorders, yaws, bejel, and pinta (endemic treponematosis) remain serious health issues in many regions of the world. Aside from prominent skin manifestations, these diseases may also lead to significant osseous, neurologic, and ophthalmologic complications. Although progress has been made in differentiating the causative species in a research setting, a simple, specific, and sensitive diagnostic test remains elusive. Parenteral penicillin, in appropriate dosage, is the treatment of choice; alternative antibiotics such as tetracycline and erythromycin may also be effective.