Late congenital neurosyphilis [juvenile neurosyphilis] Save

Late Congenital Neurosyphilis [Juvenile Neurosyphilis]: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Neurosyphilis is a bacterial infection that affects the central nervous system. It can occur at any stage of syphilis, including late congenital neurosyphilis (juvenile neurosyphilis), which occurs when a newborn is infected with syphilis during pregnancy or delivery. Late congenital neurosyphilis can cause a range of symptoms that can affect a child's development and quality of life.

1. Symptoms: The symptoms of late congenital neurosyphilis can vary widely from person to person. Some children may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience seizures, difficulty with coordination and balance, mental retardation, and hearing or vision loss. Other symptoms may include irritability, poor feeding, and a failure to thrive. Symptoms of late congenital neurosyphilis usually develop between the ages of 2 and 10 years old.
2. Causes: Late congenital neurosyphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which is transmitted from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy or delivery. The risk of transmission is highest during the early stages of syphilis, but it can occur at any time during pregnancy. Treatment with antibiotics can reduce the risk of transmission, but it may not completely eliminate it.
3. Treatment: Treatment for late congenital neurosyphilis typically involves a course of antibiotics such as penicillin. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may be given intravenously or orally. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to manage symptoms such as seizures or hearing loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of the infection and minimize the risk of long-term complications.

If you suspect that your child may have late congenital neurosyphilis, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can perform a physical exam and order laboratory tests to diagnose the infection. Treatment should begin promptly to prevent the infection from causing further damage to the central nervous system and other organs. With proper treatment and management, most children with late congenital neurosyphilis can lead healthy, productive lives.