Clinical Scorecard: Protecting Newborns from Congenital Syphilis

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Congenital syphilis cases in the US reached nearly 4,000 in 2024.
• 40% of congenital syphilis cases occur in mothers who did not receive prenatal care.
• Testing for syphilis should be universal for all pregnant women, ideally at the first prenatal visit.
• Penicillin G benzathine is an effective treatment for syphilis.
• Awareness and access to care are critical in reducing congenital syphilis rates.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Use serological tests including nontreponemal and treponemal tests for accurate diagnosis.

Management

• Treat syphilis with penicillin G benzathine and ensure timely follow-up.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Repeat syphilis testing during the third trimester and at delivery.

Risks

• Missed prenatal care and delayed treatment increase the risk of congenital syphilis.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Pregnant women at risk for syphilis.

Timely treatment with penicillin is crucial to prevent transmission to the infant.

Clinical Best Practices

• Implement universal syphilis screening for all pregnant women.
• Enhance awareness and education about syphilis among healthcare providers.
• Improve access to prenatal care and syphilis testing in high-prevalence areas.

Related Resources & Content

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists