Syphilis and Maternal-Child Health: An Update for Dermatologists

Dr. Sarah Coates, a pediatric dermatologist, discussed the increasing prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women and its implications for maternal-child health during her presentation. She highlighted a case of a missed opportunity for screening that led to severe consequences for a newborn. The rising incidence of congenital syphilis in the U.S., now at a 30-year high, has been attributed largely to a failure to test and treat expecting mothers. Coates emphasized the importance of screening all pregnant women at their first visit and at high-risk intervals, considering social drivers like poverty and language barriers that contribute to low testing rates. She pointed out that asymptomatic newborns often do not exhibit immediate signs of syphilis, complicating timely diagnosis and treatment. While most infected infants show no skin lesions at birth, she detailed potential presentations and the necessity of thorough follow-ups to catch any delayed manifestations. The treatment of congenital syphilis requires immediate hospitalization and antibiotics, with a focus on preventing long-term complications. Coates concluded that dermatologists have a key role in recognizing signs of syphilis due to their clinical expertise, ultimately aiming to prevent its severe outcomes.