The slow degeneration of nerve cells and nerve fibers that carry sensory information to the brain as a result of untreated syphilis is called Tabes dorsalis.
Symptoms :
It may not occur immediately post initial infection but may appear at later stages
Common symptoms include weakness,
Diminished reflexes,
Unsteady gait,
Progressive degeneration of joints,
Loss of coordination,
Episodes of intense pain and disturbed sensation,
Dementia, deafness,
Personality changes, etc.
Causes : It is a complication of late stage syphilis infection. At this stage, the causative bacteria damages the spinal cord and peripheral nervous tissue and manifests into the symptoms of Tabes dorsalis.
Treatment :
Intravenous penicillin – drug of choice
Opiates, valproates and carbamazepine – treat pain
Physical and rehabilitative therapy to treat muscle wasting
Preventive treatment is also adopted to curb the spread
Admin_NHT Staff asked 5 years ago