Syphylis

Question 1

Four stages

Answer 1

• Skin Chancre
• Widespread rashes and lesions
• Lasts 1-20 years
• Gummatas, dementia, stroke, blindness

Question 2

Skeletal markers

Answer 2

Periostitis causing necrosis, osteoporosis, spontaneous fracture, sclerotic responses

Question 3

Congenital infection

Answer 3

• Hutchinson’s/Fournier’s teeth considered pathgnomonic
• Hutchinsons teeth = small, widely spaced teeth with notches on biting surface
• Fournier’s teeth = Mulberry teeth multi-nodule, dental hypoplasia
• Destructive bone lesions

Question 4

Stats

Answer 4

• Only 30% of people infected will exhibit tertiary stage systems
• Skeletal markers of syphylis may not be diagnostic

Question 5

The first syphylis epidemic

Answer 5

Historical records
- 1st European syphylis epidemic documented AD 1494 -1495

Widely accepted hypothesis
- Columbus’ crew brought yaws back to Europe on their return in 1493
- Evolved into syphylis

Supported by accounts of Ray Diaz de Isla
- Reported that Columbus’ pilot had syphylis upon his return

Question 6

Does syphylis predate Columbus’ expedition

Answer 6

• Dome Square Cemetary, St Polten, Austria
• 4-8 year old, 14C date AD 1320-1440
• Hutchinson’s incisors, mulberry molars
• 7 adults with shabre skins