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In utero syphilis infection

Radswiki et al.

In utero syphilis infection results from transmission from maternal infection from the spirokete Treponema pallidum.

Pathology

The pathogen is capable of crossing the placenta during any time in gestation.

Markers

The following tests can be assessed on maternal blood

fluorescent treponemal antibody absorbed test (FTA-ABS)
rapid plasma reagin (RPR)
venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL)

Radiographic features

Antenatal ultrasound

Sonographic features are often non specific and mimic those of the generalised in utero infection.

Such features include

In severe cases there may be evidence of

Treatment and prognosis

Treatment in often with penicillin. Fetal demise or still birth can occur in ~ 50% of intreated cases. Fetal developing hydrops tend to have a very poor prognosis.

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