children s health issues
Syphilis in Newborns
Symptoms of Syphilis in Newborns
 Stillbirth , Newborns may have no symptoms of syphilis, and some infected newborns never develop any problems throughout their life. For newborns who do have symptoms, manifestations of congenital syphilis are classified as early or late. Early congenital syphilisbegins during the first 3 months of life. Large blisters or a flatcopper-colored rash may develop on palms and soles. Raised bumps may develop around the nose and mouth and in the diaper area. Newborns may not grow well. They may have cracks around their mouth, or mucus, pus, or blood may run from the nose. Usually, their lymph nodes, liver, and spleen are enlarged. Rarely, inflammation of the eyes or brain, seizures, meningitis, or intellectual disability occur. Within the first 8 months of life, inflammation of bones and cartilage, especially of the long bones and ribs, may make it difficult for infants to move and may make the bones develop improperly. Late congenital syphilisbegins after 2 years of life. Sores may form in the nose and mouth and bones may grow abnormally. Eye problems may cause blindness and scarring of the cornea (the clear layer in front of the iris and pupil). Problems with development of the teeth and bones in the face also occur. Deafness may occur at any age. 