264 - Dental Manifestations and Management of Congenital Syphilis: A Case Report

Introduction

Congenital syphilis is a serious, preventable infection transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth. The bacterium Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis, crosses the placenta and infects the fetus, leading to complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, developmental delays, bone deformities, and stillbirth. Dental anomalies like Hutchinson’s incisors, Moon’s molars (also called mulberry molars), and groove-like cuspal defects on canines were first described in 1859. Early screening and antibiotic treatment during pregnancy are essential to prevent syphilis transmission and protect both mother and baby.

Case Report

This case involves a seven-year-old girl who presented to Ohio City Family Dentistry for a comprehensive exam. Her medical history includes uncontrolled Type 1 diabetes, congenital syphilis treated at age 3, and three hernia repairs. Current medications include insulin glargine, insulin lispro, and omeprazole. She is being managed by pediatric endocrinology to stabilize her blood sugar levels. The patient sought emergency dental care due to generalized dental pain. Exam findings revealed decay in all primary canines, first and second molars, and maxillary incisors. She is in early mixed dentition, with permanent mandibular incisors and first molars. Due to her age and the extent of required dental work, treatment was performed under general anesthesia in the operating room. This case report discusses the clinical and radiographic findings of congenital syphilis, as well as the dental treatment provided.

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