Stroke secondary to syphilis is a complication of syphilis infection resulting in a loss of specific brain functions because of destruction of the blood vessels that supply the brain.

Alternative Names

Syphilitic stroke

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Stroke caused by syphilis occurs as a life-threatening complication of long-standing syphilis infection. The infection causes inflammation and blockage of the arteries which supply the brain. Decreased blood flow causes brain tissue damage from lack of blood flow and oxygen (ischemia) and death of the tissues (infarction). Risks include tertiary syphilis infection.

Signs and tests

A known history of syphilis may help to indicate syphilis as the cause of the stroke . Tests may be used to confirm syphilis as the cause of the stroke, including:

Serum (blood) VDRL

and RPR are screening tests. If positive FTA-Abs and MHATP are done to confirm the diagnosis.

CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) examination

, showing positive

CSF VDRL test , increased number of white blood cells, increased protein level, increased pressure of the fluid, or other abnormality. The location and extent of the area of the brain involved in the stroke may be determined by:

Head CT scan

Head MRI scan

Angiography of the head

or neck showing constriction or occlusion of the arteries

Treatment

Symptoms are treated as with any stroke . Physical therapy, occupational therapy and other rehabilitation measures may be needed. Antibiotics are used in high doses to treat the syphilis infection. Analgesics may be needed to control severe headaches .

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome depends on the extent of damage to the brain, the presence of other complications of late syphilis , and other factors.

Complications

Complications of

stroke

Complications of

syphilis

Calling your health care provider

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have any symptoms of impending stroke.

Prevention

Stroke secondary to syphilis may be prevented by adequate treatment and follow-up for primary syphilis and secondary syphilis . Preventing the development of latent and tertiary syphilis prevents progressive damage, not only to blood vessels, but to the brain, spinal cord, bones, heart, and other tissues.