Hutchinson's triad Save

Hutchinson's triad: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis

Hutchinson's triad is a set of symptoms caused by congenital syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The triad consists of three major symptoms that are seen in infants born to mothers infected with syphilis during pregnancy. These symptoms include:

1. Hutchinson teeth
2. Interstitial keratitis
3. Deafness

Hutchinson teeth are a characteristic feature of congenital syphilis and are caused due to the abnormal development of the teeth. In this condition, the upper, central incisors of the permanent teeth are notched and peg-shaped, giving them a characteristic screwdriver or mulberry appearance.

Interstitial keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. It is caused due to the deposition of immune complexes in the corneal stroma, leading to inflammation and scarring.

The third symptom of Hutchinson's triad is deafness. This is caused due to the damage to the cochlea, the hearing organ in the inner ear, caused by the inflammation of the syphilis infection.

Diagnosis of Hutchinson's triad is done through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. A blood test can be done to check for the presence of antibodies to the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

In conclusion, Hutchinson's triad is a set of symptoms caused by congenital syphilis. The triad consists of three major symptoms that are seen in infants born to mothers infected with syphilis during pregnancy. These symptoms include Hutchinson teeth, interstitial keratitis, and deafness. Diagnosis is done through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. With early diagnosis and treatment, the complications of congenital syphilis can be prevented.