Infection with Treponema pallidum bacterium has a well established teratogenic effect. Transmission can occur during any stage of gestation and the risk of fetal damage is high (90%). The bacterium induces vascular endothelial inflammation, which results in secondary fibrosis and tissue damage. In cases where a large number of organs is affected, stillborn rate is high.
Infection manifestations also include hepatosplenomegaly, hydrops fetalis, hemolytic anemia, meningitis, pneumonia, myositis and osteochondritis. Nowadays, late congenital syphilis diagnosed after 2nd year of age is very rare and if not treated, it manifests itself typically: the so-called Hutchinson's triad (deafness, blindness, teeth damage), saddle nose, palate perforations and saber shins.
Fetus, syphilis: Congenital syphilis, Macro, autopsy (72090) Congenital syphilis, Macro, autopsy (72091)
Fetus, syphilis, hepatosplenomegaly: Congenital syphilis, hepatosplenomegaly, Macro, autopsy (72093) Syphilis congenita, hepatosplenomegaly, Macro, autopsy (72155) Syphilis congenita, hepatosplenomegaly, Macro, autopsy (72156)
Silver staining gives evidence of the bacteria during the 1st trimester. If the woman was treated before 16 – 18th w.g., the infection cannot be histologically detected.