Uma abordagem transversal sobre Sífilis Congênita em Sergipe: sinais e sintomas e suas implicações para a Saúde Neonatal

Abstract

Congenital syphilis (CS) is a serious disease transmitted during pregnancy or childbirth, with a worrying incidence in Brazil, particularly in the Northeast, where Sergipe has alarming rates. Epidemiological data from the Ministry of Health highlight the magnitude of this problem across the country, emphasizing the importance of prevention and adequate treatment to reduce vertical transmission of the disease. This cross-sectional study investigated signs and symptoms in children treated for CS in a philanthropic maternity hospital in Aracaju - SE. Secondary data from physical records of children monitored at the reference outpatient clinic for CS were analyzed. The variables considered included age at first consultation, signs and symptoms of CS, maternal prenatal treatment, and maternal and child serology. Data were statistically analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Of the 150 cases analyzed, the majority were asymptomatic at birth. The frequency of hepatomegaly was 22% in the newborn's first consultation and these cases were more significantly associated with mothers who were not treated or treated inadequately during prenatal care (p=0.005375). The study had limitations such as its cross-sectional and unicentric nature, which restricted a complete understanding of the evolution over time of affected children. Still, the investigation reinforces the need for more prospective research to understand the progression of symptoms throughout the first years of life. The study highlights the importance of understanding the signs and symptoms of children with CS, monitoring prenatal care to reduce vertical transmission of syphilis and emphasizes the urgency of effective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with CS and improve neonatal health outcomes.