Gestational syphilis: epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management
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Abstract
Objective: To review in a clear and didactic manner the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of gestational syphilis (GS). Literature review: Gestational syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial disease caused by Treponema pallidum that affects pregnant women. When not properly treated with a maximum of thirty days before delivery, it can lead to vertical transmission, causing congenital syphilis. It is a disease that affects approximately 1 million pregnant women worldwide each year, and its progression can result in spontaneous abortion, low birth weight, prematurity, neurosyphilis, skeletal malformations, and other alterations that can significantly affect the baby's quality of life. The preferred treatment for GS is Benzathine penicillin G, administered intramuscularly in a dose depending on the stage of the disease in which the pregnant woman is. Final considerations: GS is a condition that requires prompt diagnosis and immediate initiation of treatment to prevent the progression of the disease to its most severe forms and congenital syphilis.
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