ROLE OF THE DENTIST IN CONGENITAL SYPHILIS EARLY DIAGNOSIS

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to review the role of the dentist in congenital syphilis early diagnosis. Study Design A search for articles published in PubMed and Scielo was performed in the period from 2010 to 2021, using the terms “congenital syphilis” AND “oral manifestations.” Results The condition was divided into late and early syphilis. Periostitis is the facial signal of early syphilis. As for late syphilis, which develops in untreated infants, facial signals are described as the Hutchinson triad, including Hutchinson's teeth, interstitial keratitis, and deafness. These 3 signals are not always present, and the investigation of other clinical signs such as frontal bossing and maxillary atresia, are required. Additionally, pregnant women should be examined for oral manifestations of primary and secondary syphilis to be treated and avoid vertical transmission. The importance of early diagnosis is due to the high figures of congenital syphilis cases in Brazil. During 2019, 24.130 new cases were diagnosed, and 173 deaths occurred. Conclusions Dentists can contribute to congenital syphilis early diagnosis by performing a complete clinical exam, and searching for signals located in the maxillofacial complex. It is necessary to use strategies to optimize diagnosis and treatment so that it does not progress to more severe stages. The aim of this study was to review the role of the dentist in congenital syphilis early diagnosis. A search for articles published in PubMed and Scielo was performed in the period from 2010 to 2021, using the terms “congenital syphilis” AND “oral manifestations.” The condition was divided into late and early syphilis. Periostitis is the facial signal of early syphilis. As for late syphilis, which develops in untreated infants, facial signals are described as the Hutchinson triad, including Hutchinson's teeth, interstitial keratitis, and deafness. These 3 signals are not always present, and the investigation of other clinical signs such as frontal bossing and maxillary atresia, are required. Additionally, pregnant women should be examined for oral manifestations of primary and secondary syphilis to be treated and avoid vertical transmission. The importance of early diagnosis is due to the high figures of congenital syphilis cases in Brazil. During 2019, 24.130 new cases were diagnosed, and 173 deaths occurred. Dentists can contribute to congenital syphilis early diagnosis by performing a complete clinical exam, and searching for signals located in the maxillofacial complex. It is necessary to use strategies to optimize diagnosis and treatment so that it does not progress to more severe stages.