Early limb paralysis in infants: do not forget about congenital syphilis

Int J STD AIDS. 2021 Jul;32(8):768-770. doi: 10.1177/0956462420987442. Epub 2021 Feb 3.

Abstract

We describe the case of a 2-month-old baby with congenital syphilis, presenting with limb paralysis. The radiological investigations showed periosteal thickenings of the limb. Despite negative maternal serology during the first trimester of pregnancy, clinical and radiological features led to the suspicion of pseudoparalysis of Parrot, which was confirmed by blood tests. Delayed diagnoses or misdiagnoses are possible when uncommon presentations of forgotten diseases occur. The needing for a second screening for syphilis in high-risk pregnant women should be evaluated.

Keywords: Congenital syphilis; limb paralysis; pseudoparalysis of Parrot.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Paralysis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Trimester, First
  • Syphilis*
  • Syphilis, Congenital* / diagnosis