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Labudde EJ, Lee J. A Review of Syphilis Infection in Pediatric Patients. Pediatr Rev 2024; 45:373-380. [PMID: 38945983 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2023-006309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Nearly half of all sexually transmitted infections occur in adolescents and young adults. Among them, syphilis infections are on the rise in the United States. Sexually active adolescents, especially those who do not use condoms consistently or are men who have sex with men, are at particular risk for syphilis infection. With the rise in acquired syphilis infections, the incidence of congenital syphilis has also increased. Syphilis can have a variety of presentations based on infectious stage and central nervous system involvement. Careful physical examination and history can elicit the diagnosis. Screening with a nontreponemal test followed by treponemal testing can confirm the diagnosis, and staging is determined clinically. Testing for all sexually transmitted infections should be pursued because coinfections are common. Penicillin is the first-line treatment for syphilis, and duration of therapy depends on the presence of neurologic symptoms; all infants with possible congenital syphilis should receive treatment. Posttreatment monitoring is essential to confirm successful eradication of syphilis. All sexually active, at-risk patients, including pregnant persons, should be screened for syphilis, and those diagnosed as having syphilis should be counseled on disclosure to partners. Although not often found in a pediatric population, with the increasing incidence of syphilis infections in the United States, pediatric providers should have a low threshold for syphilis screening in adolescents and a high index of suspicion for congenital syphilis in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Labudde
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
- Pediatric Residency Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Jane Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
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Fuertes-Bucheli JF, Buenaventura-Alegría DP, Rivas-Mina AM, Pacheco-López R. Congenital Syphilis Prevention Challenges, Pacific Coast of Colombia, 2018-2022. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:890-899. [PMID: 38666579 PMCID: PMC11060441 DOI: 10.3201/eid3005.231273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
High incidences of congenital syphilis have been reported in areas along the Pacific coast of Colombia. In this retrospective study, conducted during 2018-2022 at a public hospital in Buenaventura, Colombia, we analyzed data from 3,378 pregnant women. The opportunity to prevent congenital syphilis was missed in 53.1% of mothers because of the lack of syphilis screening. Characteristics of higher maternal social vulnerability and late access to prenatal care decreased the probability of having >1 syphilis screening test, thereby increasing the probability of having newborns with congenital syphilis. In addition, the opportunity to prevent congenital syphilis was missed in 41.5% of patients with syphilis because of the lack of treatment, which also increased the probability of having newborns with congenital syphilis. We demonstrate the urgent need to improve screening and treatment capabilities for maternal syphilis, particularly among pregnant women who are more socially vulnerable.
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Boureka E, Tsakiridis I, Kostakis N, Giouleka S, Mamopoulos A, Kalogiannidis I, Athanasiadis A, Dagklis T. Antenatal Care: A Comparative Review of Guidelines. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2024; 79:290-303. [PMID: 38764206 DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0000000000001261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Importance Antenatal care plays a crucial role in safely monitoring and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, ultimately leading to the best possible perinatal outcomes. Objective The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published guidelines on antenatal care. Evidence Acquisition A descriptive review of guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the Public Health Agency of Canada, the World Health Organization, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists regarding antenatal care was conducted. Results There is a consensus among the reviewed guidelines regarding the necessary appointments during the antenatal period, the proper timing for induction of labor, the number and frequency of laboratory examinations for the assessment of mother's well-being, and management strategies for common physiological problems during pregnancy, such as nausea and vomiting, heartburn, pelvic pain, leg cramps, and symptomatic vaginal discharge. In addition, special consideration should be given for mental health issues and timely referral to a specialist, reassurance of complete maternal vaccination, counseling for safe use of medical agents, and advice for cessation of substance, alcohol, and tobacco use during pregnancy. Controversy surrounds clinical evaluation during the antenatal period, particularly when it comes to the routine use of an oral glucose tolerance test and symphysis-fundal height measurement for assessing fetal growth, whereas routine cardiotocography and fetal movement counting are suggested practices only by Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Of note, recommendations on nutritional interventions and supplementation are offered only by Public Health Agency of Canada and World Health Organization, with some minor discrepancies in the optimal dosage. Conclusions Antenatal care remains a critical factor in achieving positive outcomes, but there are variations depending on the socioeconomic status of each country. Therefore, the establishment of consistent international protocols for optimal antenatal care is of utmost importance. This can help provide safe guidance for healthcare providers and, consequently, improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ioannis Kalogiannidis
- Associate Professor, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Stafford IA, Workowski KA, Bachmann LH. Syphilis Complicating Pregnancy and Congenital Syphilis. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:242-253. [PMID: 38231625 DOI: 10.1056/nejmra2202762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene A Stafford
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, McGovern Medical School at UT Health, Houston (I.A.S.); and the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University (K.A.W.), and the Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - both in Atlanta (K.A.W., L.H.B.)
| | - Kimberly A Workowski
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, McGovern Medical School at UT Health, Houston (I.A.S.); and the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University (K.A.W.), and the Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - both in Atlanta (K.A.W., L.H.B.)
| | - Laura H Bachmann
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, McGovern Medical School at UT Health, Houston (I.A.S.); and the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University (K.A.W.), and the Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - both in Atlanta (K.A.W., L.H.B.)
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Wozniak PS, Cantey JB, Zeray F, Leos NK, Michelow IC, Sheffield JS, Wendel GD, Sánchez PJ. The Mortality of Congenital Syphilis. J Pediatr 2023; 263:113650. [PMID: 37536483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To document the case-fatality rate (CFR) of congenital syphilis diagnosed by molecular tools and rabbit infectivity testing (RIT) of clinical specimens in addition to standard evaluation and to compare that with the CFR using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance case definition. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, single site, cohort study of all cases of syphilis among mothers and their infants from 1984 to 2002. The diagnosis of congenital syphilis was determined using IgM immunoblotting, polymerase chain reaction, and RIT of fetal or infant specimens in addition to clinical, laboratory, and radiographic criteria. Data were retrospectively reviewed to ascertain fetal and neonatal mortality. RESULTS During the 18-year study, there were 191 cases of congenital syphilis confirmed by abnormalities on clinical, laboratory, or radiographic evaluation and/or positive serum IgM immunoblot, blood polymerase chain reaction, or blood/cerebrospinal fluid RIT. Of the 191 cases, 59 died for a CFR of 31%. Of the 59 deaths, 53 (90%) were stillborn and 6 (10%) died in the neonatal period. The majority (74%, 39/53) of stillbirths occurred in the third trimester. The CDC surveillance case definition correctly identified all infants with congenital syphilis, but the CDC CFR was 10% which underestimated the CFR by more than 300%. CONCLUSIONS Our findings corroborate the high sensitivity of the CDC surveillance definition for congenital syphilis but highlight its poor estimation of its associated mortality. The CFR among infected progeny of pregnant women with syphilis was 31%, due mostly to demise in the third trimester and as such highlights the need for detection and appropriate treatment of syphilis during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip S Wozniak
- University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, MO; Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO; University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Joseph B Cantey
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Fiker Zeray
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Nora K Leos
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Ian C Michelow
- Connecticut Children's Medical Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Hartford, CT
| | - Jeanne S Sheffield
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Pablo J Sánchez
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH.
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Zhang YW, Liu MY, Yu XH, He XY, Song W, Liu X, Ma YN. Predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes of pregnant mothers with syphilis based on a logistic regression model: a retrospective study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1201162. [PMID: 37780444 PMCID: PMC10538632 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1201162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Maternal syphilis could cause serious consequences. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for maternal syphilis in order to predict an individual's risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 768 pregnant women with syphilis. A questionnaire was completed and data analyzed. The data was divided into a training set and a testing set. Using logistic regression to establish predictive models in the training set, and its predictive performance was evaluated in the testing set. The probability of APOs occurrence is presented through a nomogram. Results Compared with the APOs group, pregnant women in the non-APOs group participated in a longer treatment course. Course, time of the first antenatal care, gestation week at syphilis diagnosis, and gestation age at delivery in weeks were independent predictors of APOs, and they were used to establish the nomogram. Conclusions Our study investigated the impact of various characteristics of syphilis pregnant women on pregnancy outcomes and established a prediction model of APOs in Suzhou. The incidence of APOs can be reduced by controlling for these risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wei Zhang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Man-Yu Liu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xing-Hao Yu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Yu He
- Suzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Family Planning Service Center, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Science and Education, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou, China
| | - Ya-Na Ma
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Shepard DS, Halasa-Rappel YA, Rowlands KR, Kulchyckyj M, Basaza RK, Otieno ED, Mutatina B, Kariuki S, Musange SF. Economic analysis of a new four-panel rapid screening test in antenatal care in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:815. [PMID: 37525192 PMCID: PMC10391856 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09775-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We performed an economic analysis of a new technology used in antenatal care (ANC) clinics, the ANC panel. Introduced in 2019-2020 in five Rwandan districts, the ANC panel screens for four infections [hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), malaria, and syphilis] using blood from a single fingerstick. It increases the scope and sensitivity of screening over conventional testing. METHODS We developed and applied an Excel-based economic and epidemiologic model to perform cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses of this technology in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. Costs include the ANC panel itself, its administration, and follow-up treatment. Effectiveness models predicted impacts on maternal and infant mortality and other outcomes. Key parameters are the baseline prevalence of each infection and the effectiveness of early treatment using observations from the Rwanda pilot, national and international literature, and expert opinion. For each parameter, we found the best estimate (with 95% confidence bound). RESULTS The ANC panel averted 92 (69-115) disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1,000 pregnant women in ANC in Kenya, 54 (52-57) in Rwanda, and 258 (156-360) in Uganda. Net healthcare costs per woman ranged from $0.53 ($0.02-$4.21) in Kenya, $1.77 ($1.23-$5.60) in Rwanda, and negative $5.01 (-$6.45 to $0.48) in Uganda. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) in dollars per DALY averted were $5.76 (-$3.50-$11.13) in Kenya, $32.62 ($17.54-$46.70) in Rwanda, and negative $19.40 (-$24.18 to -$15.42) in Uganda. Benefit-cost ratios were $17.48 ($15.90-$23.71) in Kenya, $6.20 ($5.91-$6.45) in Rwanda, and $25.36 ($16.88-$33.14) in Uganda. All results appear very favorable and cost-saving in Uganda. CONCLUSION Though subject to uncertainty, even our lowest estimates were still favorable. By combining field data and literature, the ANC model could be applied to other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald S Shepard
- The Heller School for Social Policy & Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, 02454-9110, USA.
| | - Yara A Halasa-Rappel
- The Heller School for Social Policy & Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, 02454-9110, USA
- Commonwealth Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Katharine R Rowlands
- The Heller School for Social Policy & Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, 02454-9110, USA
| | - Maria Kulchyckyj
- The Heller School for Social Policy & Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, 02454-9110, USA
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Whiting C, Schwartzman G, Khachemoune A. Syphilis in Dermatology: Recognition and Management. Am J Clin Dermatol 2023; 24:287-297. [PMID: 36689103 PMCID: PMC9869822 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00755-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of syphilis has been increasing in the USA since 2000. Notably, the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic negatively impacted the public health efforts to contain the spread of sexually transmitted diseases including syphilis and congenital syphilis. Clinical manifestations of syphilis are predominantly mucocutaneous lesions, thus dermatologists are primed to recognize the myriad presentations of this disease. Primary syphilis is classically characterized by a painless transient chancre most often located in the genital area. Secondary syphilis typically manifests clinically as systemic symptoms in addition to a mucocutaneous eruption of which a variety of forms exist. Although less common in the era of effective penicillin treatment, late clinical manifestations of syphilis are described as well. In addition to recognition of syphilis on physical examination, several diagnostic tools may be used to confirm infection. Treponema pallidum spirochetes may be detected directly using histopathologic staining, darkfield microscopy, direct fluorescent antibody, and polymerase chain reaction assays. A table detailing the histopathologic features of syphilis is included in this article. Serologic testing, non-treponemal and treponemal tests, is the preferred method for screening and diagnosing syphilis infections. Two serologic testing algorithms exist to aid clinicians in diagnosing positive syphilis infection. Determining the correct stage of syphilis infection combines results of serologic tests, patient history, and physical examination findings. Using the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention case definitions and treatment guidelines, a management algorithm is proposed here. Penicillin remains the pharmacological treatment of choice although specific clinical situations allow for alternative therapies. Syphilis is a reportable disease in every state and should be reported by stage according to individual state requirements. Screening recommendations are largely based upon risks encountered through sexual exposures. Likewise, sexual partner management includes evaluating and treating persons exposed to someone diagnosed with an infective stage of syphilis. Close clinical follow-up and repeat testing are recommended to ensure appropriate response to treatment. This guide will discuss the current epidemiology of syphilis and focus on practice aspects of diagnosis and management, including public health reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cleo Whiting
- grid.253615.60000 0004 1936 9510School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Gabrielle Schwartzman
- grid.253615.60000 0004 1936 9510School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Amor Khachemoune
- Department of Dermatology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, State University of New York Downstate, 800 Poly Place, Brooklyn, NY, 11209, USA. .,Department of Dermatology, Veterans Health Administration, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
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Yang X, Zhu X, Wang H, Lu H. The treatment of syphilis infection in pregnant women and the follow-up investigation and analysis of syphilis infection in children after delivery in Huaian City. Panminerva Med 2022; 64:569-571. [PMID: 33565759 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.21.04294-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoer Yang
- Unit of Population Health Information, Huai'an Women and Children's Hospital, Huai'an, China
| | - Xiaoqin Zhu
- Unit of Population Health Information, Huai'an Women and Children's Hospital, Huai'an, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Unit of Population Health Information, Huai'an Women and Children's Hospital, Huai'an, China
| | - Hongmei Lu
- Unit of Population Health Information, Huai'an Women and Children's Hospital, Huai'an, China -
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O'Connor NP, Burke PC, Worley S, Kadkhoda K, Goje O, Foster CB. Outcomes After Positive Syphilis Screening. Pediatrics 2022; 150:188942. [PMID: 36000336 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-056457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syphilis screening during pregnancy helps prevent congenital syphilis. The harms associated with false positive (FP) screens and whether screening leads to correct treatments has not been well determined. METHODS The population included mothers and infants from 75 056 pregnancies. Using laboratory-based criteria we classified initial positive syphilis screens as FP or true positive (TP) and calculated false discovery rates. For mothers and infants we determined treatments, clinical characteristics, and syphilis classifications. RESULTS There were 221 positive screens: 183 FP and 38 TP. The false discovery rate was 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78-0.88). False discovery rates were similar for traditional 0.83 [95% CI, 0.72-0.94] and reverse algorithms 0.83 (95% CI, 0.77-0.88), and for syphilis Immunoglobin (Ig) G 0.79 (95% CI, 0.71-0.86) and total 0.90 (95% CI, 0.82-0.97) assays. FP screens led to treatment in 2 women and 1 infant. Two high-risk women were not rescreened at delivery and were diagnosed after hospital discharge; 1 infant developed congenital syphilis. Among 15 TP women with new syphilis, the diagnosis was before the late third trimester in 14 (93%). In one-half of these women, there was concern for reinfection, treatment failure, inadequate treatment or follow-up care, or late treatment, and their infants did not achieve an optimal syphilis classification. CONCLUSIONS Syphilis screening identifies maternal syphilis, but limitations include FP screens, which occasionally lead to unnecessary treatment, inconsistent risk-based rescreening, and among TP mothers failure to optimize care to prevent birth of infants at higher risk for congenital syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola P O'Connor
- Center for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Children's, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | | | | | | | - Charles B Foster
- Center for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Children's, Cleveland, Ohio
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Williams JEP, Graf RJ, Miller CA, Michelow IC, Sánchez PJ. Maternal and Congenital Syphilis: A Call for Improved Diagnostics and Education. Pediatrics 2022; 150:188941. [PMID: 36000327 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-057927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E P Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Rachel J Graf
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Ian C Michelow
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Hartford, Connecticut
| | - Pablo J Sánchez
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,Divisions of Neonatology and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Center for Perinatal Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
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12
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Begaj T, Sobrin L. Ophthalmic Consequences of Syphilis. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2022; 62:251-268. [PMID: 35325922 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Shaw S, Plourde P, Klassen P, Stein D. A descriptive study of syphilis testing in Manitoba, Canada, 2015-2019. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2022; 48:95-101. [PMID: 35342365 PMCID: PMC8889925 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v48i23a07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Background In 2018, Manitoba had the highest reported rate of infectious syphilis in Canada, at over three times the national average. Infectious syphilis in Manitoba is centred on young, marginalized heterosexual couples in Winnipeg's inner-city. Subsequently, a public health crisis involving congenital syphilis emerged in Manitoba, just prior to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Testing and screening (in the case of pregnancy) for syphilis is thought to be an effective measure to reduce the incidence of syphilis and its sequelae. The aim of this study is to describe syphilis testing practices in the general population and amongst pregnant women, during a period of shifting syphilis epidemiology. Methods We used population-based syphilis testing data from Cadham Provincial Laboratory (Winnipeg, Manitoba) for 2015 to 2019. Directly age-standardized rates are reported, and Poisson regression used to model the determinants of testing rates. Rates of prenatal screening are also reported. Results From 2015 to 2019, a total of 386,350 individuals were tested for syphilis. The rate increased annually, from 462 per 10,000 population in 2015 to 704 per 100,000 in 2019, while the female-to-male ratio decreased from 1.8 to 1.6. Prior to 2019, the majority of pregnant women (approximately 60%) were screened once, during the first trimester; however, 2019 saw more women having more than two tests during the course of their pregnancy. Conclusion An overall increase in the number of individuals tested was observed, reflecting the increased rate of syphilis in Manitoba. Prenatal screening patterns shifted in 2019, likely in response to rising congenital syphilis numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souradet Shaw
- Institute for Global Public Health, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB
| | - Pierre Plourde
- Population and Public Health, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg, MB
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB
| | | | - Derek Stein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB
- Cadham Provincial Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the US had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in 2018. This review provides an update on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes. OBSERVATIONS From 2015 to 2019, the rates of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis increased in the US; from 1999 to 2016, while the rates of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and HSV-2 declined. Populations with higher rates of STIs include people younger than 25 years, sexual and gender minorities such as men and transgender women who have sex with men, and racial and ethnic minorities such as Black and Latinx people. Approximately 70% of infections with HSV and trichomoniasis and 53% to 100% of extragenital gonorrhea and chlamydia infections are asymptomatic or associated with few symptoms. STIs are associated with HIV acquisition and transmission and are the leading cause of tubal factor infertility in women. Nucleic acid amplification tests have high sensitivities (86.1%-100%) and specificities (97.1%-100%) for the diagnosis of gonorrhea, chlamydia, M genitalium, trichomoniasis, and symptomatic HSV-1 and HSV-2. Serology remains the recommended method to diagnose syphilis, typically using sequential testing to detect treponemal and nontreponemal (antiphospholipid) antibodies. Ceftriaxone, doxycycline, penicillin, moxifloxacin, and the nitroimidazoles, such as metronidazole, are effective treatments for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, M genitalium, and trichomoniasis, respectively, but antimicrobial resistance limits oral treatment options for gonorrhea and M genitalium. No cure is available for genital herpes. Effective STI prevention interventions include screening, contact tracing of sexual partners, and promoting effective barrier contraception. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the US had an STI in 2018. Rates of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis in the US have increased, while rates of HSV-1 and HSV-2 have declined. Ceftriaxone, doxycycline, penicillin, moxifloxacin, and the nitroimidazoles are effective treatments for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and trichomoniasis, respectively, but antimicrobial resistance limits oral therapies for gonorrhea and Mycoplasma genitalium, and no cure is available for genital herpes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tuddenham
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Matthew M Hamill
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Khalil G Ghanem
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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15
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Stubbs LA, Saliba CK, Schallert EK, John SD, Khatua S, Valencia Deray KG, Stevens AM, Rocha MEM. A Lucky Break: A Case of a 3-Month-Old Female With a Pathologic Fracture. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2022; 61:76-80. [PMID: 34823408 DOI: 10.1177/00099228211059039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Anna Stubbs
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cynthia K Saliba
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Erica K Schallert
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Susan D John
- Division of Diagnostic and Intervention Imaging McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Sutapa Khatua
- Division of Pediatric Hospital Medicine McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Kristen G Valencia Deray
- Section of Infectious Disease and Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Alexandra M Stevens
- Section of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Mary Esther M Rocha
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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16
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Halfar M. Medical Problems During Pregnancy. Fam Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-54441-6_151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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17
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Thompson MA, Horberg MA, Agwu AL, Colasanti JA, Jain MK, Short WR, Singh T, Aberg JA. Erratum to: Primary Care Guidance for Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: 2020 Update by the HIV Medicine Association of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 74:1893-1898. [PMID: 34878522 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael A Horberg
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Allison L Agwu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mamta K Jain
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - William R Short
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tulika Singh
- Internal Medicine, HIV and Infectious Disease, Desert AIDS Project, Palm Springs, California, USA
| | - Judith A Aberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
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18
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Expressions of interferon-stimulated genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with secondary syphilis. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2021; 96:105137. [PMID: 34781038 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.105137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that threatens human health worldwide. However, the immune regulation cascade caused by treponemia pallidum (TP) infection remains still largely unclear. METHODS To investigate the expression of ISGs in secondary syphilis (SS), we recruited 64 patients with SS and equal number of healthy participants to obtain their peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). qRT-PCR was performed to estimate the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) including CXCL10, OAS3, OAS1, MX1, IFIT3, IFIT2, IFI6 and AIM2. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was adapted to diagnostic value of these genes to distinguish healthy controls and patients with SS. RESULTS ISGs including CXCL10, OAS3, OAS1, MX1, IFIT3, IFIT2, IFI6 and AIM2 were all upregulated in PBMCs of patients with SS. Area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the 8 ISGs were all more than 0.5. IFIT3 exhibited the highest diagnostic value, followed by AIM2, IFIT2 and CXCL10, according to the Yoden Index. CONCLUSION ISGs including CXCL10, OAS3, OAS1, MX1, IFIT3, IFIT2, IFI6 and AIM2 were upregulated in patients with SS and they have diagnostic value for syphilis.
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19
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Abstract
Syphilis in neonates and infants remains a significant public health problem because it is a major cause of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. Despite decades of experience with syphilis in adults and infants, maternal and congenital syphilis are increasing substantially in the United States. The vertical transmission, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up are reviewed to guide the health care professional in understanding the optimal management of this preventable disease.
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20
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Garcia JFB, Aun MV, Motta AA, Castells M, Kalil J, Giavina-Bianchi P. Algorithm to guide re-exposure to penicillin in allergic pregnant women with syphilis: Efficacy and safety. World Allergy Organ J 2021; 14:100549. [PMID: 34093957 PMCID: PMC8165434 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gestational syphilis is underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to stillbirth, prematurity, low birthweight, neonatal death, and congenital syphilis. Most patients who label as allergic to penicillin are misdiagnosed. Objective To assess the efficacy and safety of an algorithm to guide re-exposure to penicillin in pregnant women with syphilis and reporting allergy to the antibiotic. Methods We performed a prospective study assessing pregnant women with syphilis and labeled as allergic to penicillin. Based on clinical history, patients were divided in two groups: high-risk and low-risk to penicillin allergy. Low-risk patients with negative skin testing and negative serum specific IgE to penicillin underwent drug provocation test. The remaining patients underwent desensitization. Results Ninety-one patients were enrolled. Allergy to penicillin was confirmed in 7.69% of pregnant women with syphilis and clinical history of allergy to penicillin; in all cases the diagnosis was made through intradermal testing, which predicted 100% of the breakthrough reactions observed during rapid drug desensitization (p < 0.001). Risk stratification based on the initial clinical reaction and skin testing to guide penicillin re-introduction through drug challenge or desensitization was safe (97.8%) and effective (97.8%). Conclusion We developed and showed the efficacy and safety of an algorithm to guide re-exposure to penicillin in pregnant women with syphilis and labeled as allergic to this drug. Intradermal test is an excellent biomarker in the diagnosis of immediate hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin and to predict breakthrough reaction during rapid drug desensitization. Further studies may confirm the greater safety of the intravenous protocol compared to the oral protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcelo Vivolo Aun
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Abilio Motta
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Castells
- Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jorge Kalil
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro Giavina-Bianchi
- Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Congenital Syphilis: A Case Report Demonstrating Missed Opportunities for Screening and Inadequate Treatment Despite Multiple Health Care Encounters During Pregnancy. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:e124-e125. [PMID: 34110747 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT A case of congenital syphilis due to multiple missed opportunities, highlights the challenges of treating syphilis during pregnancy. Although cases are increasing in the United States, congenital syphilis, a disease with devastating consequences, is preventable.
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22
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Lee Y, Park J, Min M, Lee Y, Yu Y, Shim MK, Kim MG. Gender Equity and Vertically Transmitted Infections: A Country-Level Analysis Across 153 Countries. Health Equity 2021; 5:23-29. [PMID: 33564737 PMCID: PMC7868578 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2020.0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Gender inequality is a barrier to education toward women and accessibility to health facilities, which are important for preventing vertical transmission. This study was conducted to analyze the impact of gender equity on vertically transmitted infections (hepatitis viruses, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], and syphilis) using country-level indicators. Methods: The relationship between the Global Gender Gap Index (GGGI), which is indicator of gender equity, and vertical transmission was analyzed. GGGI scores were collected from 153 countries in 2020. Vertical transmission included 10 outcomes for hepatitis viruses, HIV, and syphilis. Generalized linear model (GLM) was used for analyzing the relationship. Other predictors included skilled birth attendant and country income. Results: The median GGGI score was 0.706 (interquartile range, 0.664–0.736). GLM showed that the GGGI score was significantly associated with the incidence of both chronic hepatitis B and C in under 5 years (both p<0.001). For HIV, GGGI score was significantly associated with the pregnant women with unknown HIV status (p=0.001), no early infant diagnosis (p=0.027), and final transmission rate (p=0.005). There was no significant predictor for pregnant women who have not received antiretroviral therapy for prevention of mother-to-child transmission. All syphilis indicators have improved in high-income countries compared to low-income countries. GGGI score had a significant association only with no syphilis screening (p<0.001). Conclusions: A lower GGGI score was associated with higher vertical transmission of hepatitis and HIV. The improvement of gender equity might prevent vertical transmission of these viruses. Further intervention studies are warranted to verify the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmi Lee
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Junseok Park
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeungki Min
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Youjin Lee
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngun Yu
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Kyoung Shim
- College of Pharmacy, CHA University, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Gyu Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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23
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Thompson MA, Horberg MA, Agwu AL, Colasanti JA, Jain MK, Short WR, Singh T, Aberg JA. Primary Care Guidance for Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: 2020 Update by the HIV Medicine Association of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 73:e3572-e3605. [PMID: 33225349 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have made it possible for persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to live a near expected life span, without progressing to AIDS or transmitting HIV to sexual partners or infants. There is, therefore, increasing emphasis on maintaining health throughout the life span. To receive optimal medical care and achieve desired outcomes, persons with HIV must be consistently engaged in care and able to access uninterrupted treatment, including ART. Comprehensive evidence-based HIV primary care guidance is, therefore, more important than ever. Creating a patient-centered, stigma-free care environment is essential for care engagement. Barriers to care must be decreased at the societal, health system, clinic, and individual levels. As the population ages and noncommunicable diseases arise, providing comprehensive healthcare for persons with HIV becomes increasingly complex, including management of multiple comorbidities and the associated challenges of polypharmacy, while not neglecting HIV-related health concerns. Clinicians must address issues specific to persons of childbearing potential, including care during preconception and pregnancy, and to children, adolescents, and transgender and gender-diverse individuals. This guidance from an expert panel of the HIV Medicine Association of the Infectious Diseases Society of America updates previous 2013 primary care guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael A Horberg
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Allison L Agwu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mamta K Jain
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - William R Short
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tulika Singh
- Internal Medicine, HIV and Infectious Disease, Desert AIDS Project, Palm Springs, California, USA
| | - Judith A Aberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
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24
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Abstract
Despite a national plan to eliminate syphilis by 2005, recent trends have reversed previously achieved progress in the United States. After a nadir between 2000 and 2013, rates of primary and secondary syphilis among women and congenital syphilis rose by 172% and 185% between 2014 and 2018, respectively. Screening early in pregnancy, repeat screening in the third trimester and at delivery among women at high risk, adherence to recommended treatment regimens, and prompt reporting of newly diagnosed syphilis cases to local public health authorities are strategies that obstetrician-gynecologists can employ to fight the current epidemic. In this report, clinical manifestations and management of syphilis in pregnancy are reviewed, and both traditional and reverse sequence screening algorithms are reviewed in detail in the context of clinical obstetrics.
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25
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Vescovi JS, Schuelter-Trevisol F. INCREASE OF INCIDENCE OF CONGENITAL SYPHILIS IN SANTA CATARINA STATE BETWEEN 2007-2017: TEMPORAL TREND ANALYSIS. REVISTA PAULISTA DE PEDIATRIA 2020; 38:e2018390. [PMID: 32667471 PMCID: PMC7357596 DOI: 10.1590/1984-0462/2020/38/2018390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the incidence of congenital syphilis and temporal trends of the reported cases of the disease in the state of Santa Catarina between 2007 and 2017. METHODS Observational study with retrospective cohort design, with secondary data from the Injury of Notification Information System (SINAN). Linear trend test and geoprocessing were performed to verify the behavior of the cases in the period. RESULTS There were 2,898 reported cases of congenital syphilis in the period, with an average of 2.9 per 1,000 live births in the period. There was an exponential increase of 0.9 percentage points per year, considered statistically significant (p<0.001). There was no difference between the incidences of cases in the different regions of the State. The fatality rate was 8.5%, considering deaths from syphilis, miscarriages and stillbirths. The profile was predominant of white mothers, with low schooling and 11.8% did not perform prenatal care. For this reason, 26.9% of them had a diagnosis of syphilis at the time of delivery. Most of the pregnant women (51.9%) had inadequate pharmacological treatment and 65.1% of the partners were not treated. CONCLUSIONS There was an exponential increase tendency in cases of congenital syphilis in the State of Santa Catarina in the period studied in all regions of the State, which reveals the failure of prenatal care, late diagnosis and inadequate treatment of the pregnant woman and her partner.
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26
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Medical Problems During Pregnancy. Fam Med 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0779-3_151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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27
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Manolescu LSC, Boeru C, Căruntu C, Dragomirescu CC, Goldis M, Jugulete G, Marin M, Popa GL, Preda M, Radu MC, Popa MI. A Romanian experience of syphilis in pregnancy and childbirth. Midwifery 2019; 78:58-63. [PMID: 31374436 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2019.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to establish the incidence of syphilis in a group of childbearing women and their newborn babies in Romania and to identify the major risk factors of materno-fetal transmission in order for midwives to develop strategies to help prevent congenital syphilis. MATERIAL AND METHODS a descriptive study of a group of 982 childbearing women who gave birth during a three-month period at an Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital in Romania. The women completed a questionnaire, which consisted of three sections: general data, general knowledge of syphilis and birth and pregnancy data. After admission to hospital, the women were investigated for syphilis using serological tests. RESULTS there was a syphilis frequency of 0.91649% (n = 9) among the surveyed women. Among the nine infected women, two were not aware that they had a syphilis infection when initially admitted to hospital. The maternal profile with the highest risk of being diagnosed with syphilis was a young woman who had not had adequate prenatal care, who had elementary sex education and who lacked knowledge of personal health and hygiene. A significant percentage of the respondents, namely 11.9% (n = 117), were aged 15 to 20. CONCLUSIONS in certain population groups, syphilis is still an important health care problem, especially in vulnerable individuals, such as childbearing women and newborns babies. More attention needs to be paid to primary prevention; the number of cases of congenital syphilis could be reduced by more involvement of midwifes and family doctors in antenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Calin Boeru
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Str. Mihai Bravu nr. 106, 100409, Ploieşti, Romania
| | - Constantin Căruntu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Department of Dermatology, Prof. N.C. Paulescu National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Str. Grigore Manolescu nr. 22-24, 030167, Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Cristiana Cerasella Dragomirescu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Cantacuzino National Medico-Military Institute for Research and Development, Splaiul Independentei nr. 103, 050096, Sector 5, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mirela Goldis
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Str. Mihai Bravu nr. 106, 100409, Ploieşti, Romania
| | - Gheorghiţă Jugulete
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Clinical Section IX - Pediatrics, "Prof. Dr. Matei Balş" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Str. Dr. Calistrat Grozovici 1, 021105, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Marin
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Str. Mihai Bravu nr. 106, 100409, Ploieşti, Romania
| | - Gabriela Loredana Popa
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Colentina Clinical Hospital (CDPC), Sos. Stefan cel Mare nr. 19-21, Sector 2, 020125, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mădălina Preda
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Cantacuzino National Medico-Military Institute for Research and Development, Splaiul Independentei nr. 103, 050096, Sector 5, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Corina Radu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Str. Mihai Bravu nr. 106, 100409, Ploieşti, Romania
| | - Mircea Ioan Popa
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari nr. 8, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; Cantacuzino National Medico-Military Institute for Research and Development, Splaiul Independentei nr. 103, 050096, Sector 5, Bucharest, Romania
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