Evaluating the prevalence and adequate treatment for congenital syphilis in a Brazilian reference maternity hospital

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To delineate characteristics associated with congenital syphilis in newborns from a capital city of Brazil, as well as to report prevalence rates, diagnostic approaches, and treatment data through document analysis. Methods: A cross-sectional, retrospective, and documentary observational study was conducted at a maternity hospital based on congenital syphilis cases reported through notification forms produced between 2016–2019. Statistical analysis involved absolute and relative frequency evaluations. Results: A total of 879 cases were included, with 2018 being the year with the most cases. Analysis revealed a high proportion of mothers with secondary education (289; 33.0%), and most selfidentifying as mixed-race (400; 45.6%). Infection diagnosis occurred at the time of or following delivery in a large percentage of the women (337; 38.4%). Among newborns, 249 cases (28.3%) exhibited symptoms, with jaundice being the most prevalent (235; 26.9%). While most newborns were discharged following treatment, four cases (0.4%) resulted in syphilis-related fatalities, including one abortion and one stillbirth. Conclusions: This study highlights deficiencies in the diagnosis and treatment of mothers affected by syphilis, emphasizing the importance of access to early diagnostic testing in pregnant women, as well as newborn screening. We further call attention to the critical need for expanded health education initiatives targeting congenital syphilis awareness among pregnant women and their partners.

Keywords

• Congenital syphilis
• Newborn health
• Public health surveillance
• Vertical infection transmission
• Prenatal care