CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF TERTIARY SYPHILIS IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Introduction: Tertiary syphilis, an advanced stage of Treponema pallidum infection, presents complex clinical manifestations that can seriously affect the health of pregnant women and their fetuses. This stage of syphilis is characterized by systemic complications, including cardiovascular lesions, neurosyphilis, and gummas, which can result in adverse consequences during pregnancy. Untreated infection during pregnancy can lead to vertical transmission, causing congenital syphilis, which has significant implications for fetal development and neonatal health. Thus, it is crucial to understand the clinical manifestations of tertiary syphilis in pregnant women to ensure early diagnosis and appropriate management. Objective: To explore the clinical manifestations of tertiary syphilis in pregnant women, emphasizing its implications for maternal and fetal health. Methodology: The methodology was based on the PRISMA checklist, with searches performed in databases such as PubMed, Scielo, and Web of Science. The five descriptors used were "tertiary syphilis", "pregnant women", "clinical manifestations", "vertical transmission" and "congenital syphilis". The search included articles published in the last 10 years that addressed clinical aspects in pregnant women with tertiary syphilis. Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed studies, investigations that analyzed clinical outcomes and articles that discussed the relationship between syphilis and pregnancy. Exclusion criteria included studies not available in full text, studies that did not focus on pregnant women and non-systematic reviews. Results: The results indicated that the clinical manifestations of tertiary syphilis in pregnant women may include neurological and cardiovascular symptoms and skin lesions, in addition to increasing the risk of obstetric complications. The research highlighted the importance of screening and early treatment, since timely intervention can reduce the incidence of congenital syphilis and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Conclusion: In summary, tertiary syphilis in pregnant women represents a significant challenge that requires special attention. Recognition of clinical manifestations is vital to ensure effective management and prevent vertical transmission. The review emphasized the need for public health strategies that promote screening and appropriate treatment of syphilis during pregnancy, contributing to improving maternal and child health outcomes.