Current trends in congenital syphilis

Abstract

In many parts of the world particularly sub-Saharan Africa, congenital syphilis is a significant public health problem. Though it is rare in most affluent countries there has been a slight resurgence recently in several European countries. The diagnosis of suspected cases and management of congenital syphilis may be confusing and the potential for severe disability is high when cases are missed. The cornerstone of congenital syphilis control is antenatal screening and treatment of mothers with penicillin and in affluent countries it should be strengthened among those at high risk. In developing countries antenatal care screening needs to be strengthened by implementing point-of-care decentralised screening and treatment, also alternative novel approaches to control congenital syphilis should be looked at and utilized. International health agencies and political parties should take steps urgently to support focused approaches to tackling the problem of continuing congenital syphilis.

Keywords: Antenatal care; congenital syphilis; penicillin; sexually transmitted infections.

Figure 1

Algorithm for treatment and diagnosis of congenital syphilis