Missed opportunities for prevention of congenital syphilis.

BACKGROUND: The WHO presented the initiative: "Global elimination of congenital syphilis (CS): rationale and strategies for action". It establishes that CS is a preventable disease that can be eliminated. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the proportion of missed opportunities for prevention (MOP) of (CS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. We studied women with children with confirmed diagnosis of CS (NOM-039-SSA2-2002) in the Mexican Social Security Institute in Jalisco from 01/01/2016 to 08/01/2022. The clinical records of the mother, the newborn and the epidemiological study (ES) were reviewed. Each case was classified into one of the MOP categories. RESULTS: 52 cases were reported: 46.2 % (n = 24) were ruled out, 34.6 % (n = 18) confirmed, 15.4 % (n = 8) unknown and 3.8 % (n = 2) probable cases. The HIV test was performed in 61.1 % (n = 11) and syphilis in 72.2 % (n = 13) of the mothers. The MOP in 27.8 % (n = 5) was inadequate treatment or omission of maternal treatment despite a timely diagnosis of syphilis. Treatment was inadequate in 63.6 % (n = 7) of the women who received it. CONCLUSION: The classification of MOP identifies gaps in CS prevention and can guide stakeholders, policy makers and public health prevention programs to reduce the incidence of CS.

ANTECEDENTES: La Organización Mundial de la Salud estableció que la sífilis congénita es una enfermedad prevenible que puede eliminarse. OBJETIVO: Estimar la proporción de oportunidades perdidas en la prevención (OPP) de la sífilis congénita. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal descriptivo. Se eligieron mujeres en cuyos hijos recién nacidos se identificó sífilis congénita entre 2016 y 2022. Se revisaron los expedientes clínicos de la madre, el recién nacido y el estudio epidemiológico. Cada caso se clasificó en una de las categorías de las OPP. RESULTADOS: Se notificaron 52 casos: 46.2 % (n = 24) fue descartado, 34.6 % (n = 18) confirmado, 15.4 % (n = 8) desconocido y 3.8 % (n = 2) probable. Las pruebas para identificar infección por VIH y sífilis se realizaron en 61.1 % (n = 11) y 72.2 % de las madres (n = 13). La OPP en 27.8 % (n = 5) consistió en el tratamiento inadecuado u omisión de tratamiento materno a pesar de diagnóstico oportuno de la sífilis. De quienes recibieron tratamiento, en 63.6 % fue inadecuado (n = 7). CONCLUSIÓN: La clasificación de OPP de sífilis congénita permite identificar brechas en la prevención y dirigir intervenciones de salud pública hacia las principales causas para reducir la incidencia.

Maternal and congenital syphilis in Indigenous Peoples: a scoping review of the worldwide literature.

BACKGROUND: Syphilis is among the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. When it occurs during pregnancy, it can seriously affect the fetus and newborn`s health. The scarcity of studies on maternal and congenital syphilis in Indigenous Peoples remains an obstacle to its control in these populations. This study aimed to explore the breadth of the literature, map updated evidence, and identify knowledge gaps on maternal and congenital syphilis in Indigenous Peoples worldwide. METHODS: We conducted a Scoping review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - Extension for Scoping Reviews. In March 2021, we collected data through a priority search on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and SciELO. RESULTS: The strategy yielded 24 studies for analysis. Data in the articles were collected from 1989 to 2020, half from 2015 onwards. Studies were in Oceania and the Americas, mainly in South America (66.7%), particularly in Brazil (50.0%). The topics assessed were Data quality related to maternal and congenital syphilis (20.8%); Diagnosis, provision, access, and use of health services (62.5%); Disease frequency and health inequities (54.2%); Determinants of maternal syphilis and congenital syphilis (20.8%); and Outcomes of maternal and congenital syphilis in the fetus (20.8%). The results show that the available literature on maternal and congenital syphilis is sparse and concentrated in some geographic areas; the frequency of these diseases in Indigenous Peoples varies but is generally higher than in the non-indigenous counterparts; the quality of surveillance data and health information systems is poor; multiple healthcare barriers exist; and the diversity of terms to identify Indigenous Peoples is a challenge to mapping scientific outputs on Indigenous Peoples' health. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal and congenital syphilis in Indigenous Peoples is a double-neglected condition and research in this area should be given the priority and encouragement it deserves globally. Reliable data and improving access to health care are needed to reduce the burden of syphilis and correctly inform policies and health services response to mitigate ethnic-racial inequalities in maternal and congenital syphilis.

Congenital syphilis in East Baton Rouge parish, Louisiana: providers' and women's perspectives.

BACKGROUND: Congenital syphilis is completely preventable through screening and treatment, but rates have been rising in the United States. Certain areas are at particularly high risk. We aimed to assess attitudes, knowledge, and barriers around effective prevention of congenital syphilis among health care providers and community women potentially at risk. METHODS: Two parallel studies were conducted: in-depth interviews with health care providers and focus groups with community women in the area of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Each group was questioned about their experience in providing or seeking prenatal care, knowledge and attitudes about congenital syphilis, sources of information on testing and treatment, perceptions of risk, standards of and barriers to treatment. Results were transcribed into QSR NVivo V10, codes developed, and common themes identified and organized. RESULTS: Providers identified delays in testing and care, lack of follow-through with partner testing, and need for community connection for prevention, as major contributors to higher rates of congenital syphilis. Women identified difficulties in accessing Medicaid contributing to delayed start of prenatal care, lack of transportation for prenatal care, and lack of knowledge about testing and prevention for congenital syphilis. CONCLUSIONS: Providers and community members were in broad agreement about factors contributing to higher rates of congenital syphilis, although some aspects were emphasized more by one group or another. Evidence-based interventions, likely at multiple levels, need to be tested and implemented to eliminate congenital syphilis.

Prevalence, associated factors and clinical features of congenital syphilis among newborns in Mbarara hospital, Uganda.

BACKGROUND: While congenital syphilis is a significant public health problem that can cause severe disabilities, little is known about the situation in Uganda. We describe prevalence, associated factors and clinical presentation of congenital syphilis in Mbarara, Uganda. METHODS: A cross sectional study was carried out among mother- newborn dyads from the postnatal ward of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH). After obtaining informed consent, a structured questionnaire was used to capture data on risk factors for congenital syphilis. A finger prick was performed on the mothers for Treponema Pallidum Haemagglutination Assay (TPHA). If TPHA was positive, a venous blood sample was collected from the mother to confirm active infection using Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR). Venous blood was drawn from a newborn if the mother tested positive by TPHA and RPR. A newborn with RPR titres 4 times higher than the mother was considered to have congenital syphilis. We fit logistic regression models to determine factors associated with congenital syphilis. RESULTS: Between June and September 2015, we enrolled 2500 mothers and 2502 newborns. Prevalence of syphilis was 3.8% (95% CI 3.1-4.6) among newborn infants and 4.1% (95% CI 3.4-5.0) among their mothers. Maternal age <25 years, past history of genital ulcer, a past history of abnormal vaginal discharge, and not receiving treatment of at least one of genital ulcer, genital itching, lower abdominal pain and abnormal vaginal discharge in the current pregnancy were the risk factors associated with congenital syphilis. The most common clinical feature was hepatosplenomegaly. CONCLUSIONS: We found higher-than-expected syphilis sero-prevalence rates in a high risk population of postnatal mothers and their newborns in Uganda. Bridge populations for syphilis may include mothers not tested during pregnancy, who are usually married and not treated. In accordance with our results, the national policy for syphilis control in Uganda should be strengthened to include universal syphilis screening amongst mother-newborn pairs in postnatal clinics with subsequent partner notification.

[High-risk clusters and temporal trends in congenital syphilis infection in Brazil]. / Aglomerados de alto risco e tendência temporal da sífilis congênita no Brasil.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the occurrence of high-risk clusters for congenital syphilis (CS) in Brazil and describe the temporal trends in the CS infection in the country, comparing children whose mothers received vs. those whose mothers did not receive prenatal care. METHOD: This ecological study used data from the National Disease Notification System (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, SINAN) and the Live Birth Information System (Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos, SINASC). For cluster analysis, the Kulldorff scan statistic was applied to the population at risk. Statistical significance was determined by the log-likelihood ratio based on Poisson discrete distribution. To analyze the temporal trends of disease detection rates, Prais-Winsten regression was used. The analysis was performed with SatScan 9.4 and Stata 14.0 software. RESULTS: Clusters with detection rates of 41.3, 44.4 and 188.1 CS cases/10 000 live births were identified in 2001, 2009 and 2017 respectively. In 2001, the rates were 8 times higher in the clusters than in the remaining country; in 2009, the rates were 3.3 times higher; and in 2017, 2.5 times higher. An increasing trend in CS infection was detected in all regions and federation units. The rates were 8.53 times higher in the children of mothers without prenatal care (243.3 cases/1 000 live births vs. 28.3 cases/1 000 live births in the children of mothers with prenatal care). CONCLUSIONS: The identification of municipality clusters at high risk for CS and of increasing trends in CS infection across the country, even in the presence of prenatal care, suggests the need for improvement of public health actions to fight this disease.

[Inequalities in congenital syphilis trends in the city of Niterói, Brazil, 2007-2016Desigualdades en la tendencia de sífilis congénita en la ciudad de Niterói, Brasil, 2007-2016]. / Desigualdades na tendência da sífilis congênita no município de Niterói, Brasil, 2007 a 2016.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the temporal distribution and epidemiologic characteristics of congenital syphilis (CS) cases in the city of Niterói, southeastern Brazil, from 2007 to 2016. METHOD: This descriptive time series analysis of the incidence of CS used data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and the Live Birth Information System (SINASC). The sample included all notified cases. A probabilistic matching was performed between SINAN and SINASC data to recover ignored information. The time series was estimated using logarithmic regression according to sociodemographic and prenatal care variables. RESULTS: There were 754 identified cases of CS in the study period (mean incidence: 11.9 cases/1 000 live births). The incidence was higher in younger women (10 to 19; 20 to 24 years) and in those with black skin, low schooling, and without prenatal care. Of the overall group, only 57.6% received a diagnosis of syphilis during prenatal care. Treatment was not adequate in 87,7%, and only 12.2% of partners were treated. SC incidence presented a growing trend of 16%/year, reaching 23.2 cases/1 000 living births in 2016. This growth was especially marked in female adolescents (25.2%/year), brown race/skin color (16.8%/year), women with low schooling (57.1%/year) and women who received prenatal care (17.3%/year); and, from 2012 to 2016, in women without information on skin color. CONCLUSIONS: Social inequalities were linked to CS in the present sample. Also, increasing CS incidence was detected in youth. Health care professionals must be trained to manage gestational syphilis, and public policies must effectively address the social determinants of this condition.

OBJETIVO: Describir la distribución temporal y las características epidemiológicas de la sífilis congénita en Niterói, sureste de Brasil, de 2007 a 2016. MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo de series temporales sobre la incidencia de la sífilis congénita; se utilizaron datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades Notificables (SINAN) y del Sistema de Información de Nacimientos Vivos (SINASC). La muestra incluyó todos los casos reportados. Se realizó además una relación probabilística entre el SINAN y el SINASC para recuperar información ignorada. La serie temporal se estimó mediante regresión logarítmica, según variables sociodemográficas y prenatales. RESULTADOS: En el período estudiado se identificaron 754 casos de sífilis congénita (incidencia media de 11,9 casos/1 000 nacidos vivos). La incidencia fue mayor en las mujeres jóvenes (10-19, 20-24 años), mujeres de raza negra, con baja escolaridad y sin atención prenatal. Del total de mujeres, sólo se realizó el diagnóstico de sífilis durante la atención prenatal en 57,6%. El tratamiento fue inadecuado en 87,7% de las mujeres, solo el 12,2% de las parejas fueron tratadas. La enfermedad presentó una tendencia creciente (16%/año), y alcanzó 23,2 casos/1 000 nacidos vivos en 2016. El aumento fue más pronunciado en las adolescentes (25,2%/año), raza/color de piel morena (16.8%/año), mujeres con baja educación (57,1%/año), mujeres que recibieron atención prenatal (17,3%/año) y, de 2012 a 2016, en mujeres sin información sobre el color de la piel. CONCLUSIONES: En esta muestra se destacaron las desigualdades sociales en la aparición de sífilis congénita, con una incidencia creciente en las jóvenes. Se requiere capacitación de los profesionales de la salud en el manejo de la sífilis gestacional y la acción efectiva de políticas públicas sobre los determinantes sociales de la sífilis.

Evolution towards the elimination of congenital syphilis in Latin America and the Caribbean: a multicountry analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Effective and low-cost interventions for preventing the vertical transmission of syphilis can substantially reduce mortality and morbidity related to maternal and congenital syphilis. This study aims to identify successes and problems in eliminating congenital syphilis in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). METHODS: Conducted in 2015, this multicountry study included qualitative data from focal point staff members of the Pan American Health Organization, as well as country information and answers to semiqualitative questions on the elimination of congenital syphilis. Additional information was obtained from five Caribbean countries and Panama. RESULTS: Few of the studied LAC countries use a rapid syphilis test, but most of them do have benzathine penicillin available in primary care facilities. The majority of the countries have national strategies and protocols for eliminating congenital syphilis. There were substantial differences among the national information systems, including with data collection, analysis, and quality control. The major challenges related to eliminating congenital syphilis are the need to improve: prenatal care; test coverage; health worker training about syphilis diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up; and access to institutional deliveries. Other problems include a lack of rapid tests; shortages of benzathine penicillin; and substandard laboratory quality. Poor follow-up of maternal syphilis cases and their sexual contacts was also reported. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the LAC countries studied have national strategic plans and protocols and have advanced in the elimination of congenital syphilis. These countries must keep improving their capacity to collect high-quality data about coverage and inequities and use this data as a basis for decision-making. To accelerate the elimination of congenital syphilis, the good practices and actions that have been undertaken must be reinforced.

Rollet's mixed chancre in Brazilian pregnant women: An unusual case report.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and has shown a significant increase in recent decades. It may be associated with other STIs such as soft chancre or chancroid, which is an uncommon infection in Brazil. The presence of ulcerated genital lesions is associated with a higher risk of HIV transmission. An accurate clinical and laboratory diagnosis of genital ulcer disease is essential for the appropriate treatment of pregnant women, in order to avoid congenital syphilis, a severe complication of mother-to-child vertical transmission. We report the case of a woman in the third trimester of pregnancy with Rollet's mixed chancre and describe the clinical and laboratory diagnosis, as well as the treatment of these diseases in pregnancy. We emphasize the importance of training health professionals on early diagnosis and treatment in order to avoid mother-to-child transmission.

[Early congenital syphilis, inadequate screening. Case report]. / Sífilis congénita temprana, cribado insuficiente. Reporte de un caso.

Background: Congenital syphilis is still a problem for developing countries, despite the screening options and low cost treatment. Clinical case: 23-day-old male patient with copper colored macules and scaling in palms and soles, as well as hepatomegaly. It was reported a negative TORCH test with VDRL of 1:512 and positive FTA ABS. As maternal history, patient had a 21 year old mother with negative VDRL at 12 weeks pregnant. Despite maternal history, with positive VDRL and FTA ABS, besides the clinical triad, it was diagnosed congenital syphilis. Conclusion: Factors that most influence failing in the prevention of congenital syphilis are inadequate prenatal care, misinterpreting diagnostic tests and not establishing monitoring programs. It is necessary to carry out VDRL tests twice during pregnancy to women who have a risk factor.

Introducción: la sífilis congénita continúa siendo un problema para los países emergentes, a pesar de las opciones de cribado y un tratamiento de bajo costo. Caso clínico: paciente de sexo masculino de 23 días de vida con máculas de color cobrizo con descamación en región palmoplantar y hepatomegalia. Se reportó un TORCH negativo con prueba serológica para la sífilis (VDRL) de 1:512 en el neonato y FTA-ABS positivo. El paciente tenía antecedente de ser hijo de madre de 21 años de edad, con VDRL negativo en el primer trimestre de embarazo. A pesar del antecedente materno, con una VDRL y un FTA-ABS positivo, además de la triada clínica, se hizo el diagnóstico de sífilis congénita. Conclusiones: los factores que más influyen en el fracaso de la prevención de la sífilis congénita son la atención prenatal inadecuada, el fracaso en la interpretación de las pruebas de diagnóstico y en los programas de monitoreo. Es necesario tomar VDRL en dos ocasiones durante la gestación o seriado por trimestre a las madres que presenten algún factor de riesgo.

Situacion de la sifilis congénita en Paraguay utilizando datos del sistema de informacion perinatal (sip plus)

Introducción : Se promueven iniciativas para mejorar la salud de las mujeres y niños siendo el denominador común disponer de un sistema de información con repercusión en la salud de esta población. En Paraguay el SIP PLUS es utilizado con diferente grado de cobertura en los servicios maternoinfantiles. Objetivo: analizar la calidad de los datos generados para la construcción de los indicadores de Eliminación de la Sífilis Congénita (SC). Metodología: Estudio nacionalmente representativo utilizando datos generados por el SIP PLUS. Resultados: 32.479 historias perinatales cargadas desde el 2018 a julio del 2021. La representación de la muestra 1,5% en 2018 al 23% en 2021. Mayores pérdidas de información en el 2020. Para las variables de contexto con menos pérdidas de información en comparación a las de prevención primaria, secundaria y salud reproductiva. La pérdida de datos para: porcentaje de mujeres embarazadas con cuidado prenatal (4 o más) en un promedio de 64,4%; porcentaje de mujeres embarazadas tamizadas 43,1 % en el 2020 y 33,4% en 2019; positividad de la prueba de sífilis 49% en el 2020. Lo que también se observa en el indicador de tratamiento. Se registraron 506 casos de SC. Tasa de SCx1000 nacidos vivos ( 10 x1000 nacidos vivos en los 4 años analizados. Edad adolescente (p: 0,040) como factor de riesgo para SC. Conclusiones: Pérdida de registros en lo referente a ETMI, por falta de carga de datos. Alta incidencia de SC en los años analizados. Adolescentes como factor de riesgo para SC.

Introduction: Initiatives are promoted to improve the health of women and children, the common denominator being having an information system with an impact on the health of this population. In Paraguay, the SIP PLUS is used with different degrees of coverage in maternal and child services. Objective: analyze the quality of the data generated for the construction of the indicators for the Elimination of Congenital Syphilis (CS). Methodology: Nationally representative study using data generated by the SIP PLUS. Results: 32,479 perinatal histories uploaded from 2018 to July 2021. The representation of the sample went from 1.5% in 2018 to 23% in 2021. Greater information losses in 2020. For the context variables with fewer information losses in comparison to those of primary, secondary prevention and reproductive health. Loss of data for: percentage of pregnant women with prenatal care (4 or more) averaged 64.4%; percentage of pregnant women screened 43.1% in 2020 and 33.4% in 2019; syphilis test positivity 49% in 2020. This is also observed in the treatment indicator. 506 cases of CS were recorded. Rate of SCx1000 live births  10 x1000 live births in the 4 years analyzed. Adolescent age (p: 0.040) as a risk factor for CS. Conclusions: Loss of records regarding ETMI, due to lack of data loading. High incidence of CS in the years analyzed. Adolescents as a risk factor for CS.

Neurosyphilis in pediatric population: a review of cases / Neurossífilis na população pediátrica: revisão de casos / Neurosífilis en población pediátrica: revisión de casos

Background: Neurosyphilis is the most severe presentation of acquired and congenital syphilis, it occurs when Treponema pallidum penetrates the central nervous system. This development can occur at any time during the evolution of the disease phases. In Brazil in 2021, 2,343 children born with congenital syphilis were diagnosed with neurosyphilis, representing 9.3% of the total. The objective of this study was to analyze the scientific evidence on the medical manifestations presented by pediatric patients affected by neurosyphilis. Methods: In February 2023, PubMed, VHL, Scopus, Lilacs and Bdenf databases were researched for published case reports of patients aged zero to less than 18 years with T. pallidum infection. The data analysis period covered 55 years. Results: Nine articles were found in the period of publication from 1967 to 2022. There were two cases in females and only one with manifestation in an adolescent of acquired neurosyphilis. The adolescent's case was the only one with a favorable outcome after adequate treatment. Other cases resulted in impaired quality of life for patients and family members involved in child care. Conclusion: The reported cases of neurosyphilis were mostly related to late diagnosis. Evidencing the fragility of prenatal care, which is crucial for prevention and intervention by T. pallidum infection causes serious consequences for child development. Therefore, control measures should focus on mandatory prenatal screening during the first trimester of pregnancy, partner notification, prompt treatment and postnatal follow-up of the newborn.

Introdução: A neurossífilis é a apresentação mais grave da sífilis adquirida e congênita, ocorre quando o Treponema pallidum penetra no sistema nervoso central. Esse desenvolvimento pode ocorrer a qualquer momento durante a evolução das fases da doença. No Brasil, em 2021, 2.343 crianças nascidas com sífilis congênita foram diagnosticadas com neurossífilis, representando 9,3% do total. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar as evidências científicas sobre as manifestações clínicas apresentadas por pacientes pediátricos acometidos por neurossífilis. Métodos: Em fevereiro de 2023, os bancos de dados PubMed, BVS, Scopus, Lilacs e Bdenf foram pesquisados para relatos de casos publicados de pacientes de zero a menos de 18 anos com infecção por T. pallidum. O período de análise dos dados abrangeu 55 anos. Resultados: Foram encontrados nove artigos no período de publicação de 1967 a 2022. Houve dois casos no sexo feminino e apenas um com manifestação em adolescente de neurossífilis adquirida. O caso da adolescente foi o único com evolução favorável após tratamento adequado. Outros casos resultaram em comprometimento da qualidade de vida dos pacientes e familiares envolvidos no cuidado da criança. Conclusão: Os casos notificados de neurossífilis foram, em sua maioria, relacionados ao diagnóstico tardio. Evidenciando a fragilidade do pré-natal, fundamental para a prevenção e intervenção da infecção pelo T. pallidum, trazendo sérias consequências para o desenvolvimento infantil. Portanto, as medidas de controle devem se concentrar na triagem pré-natal obrigatória durante o primeiro trimestre de gravidez, notificação do parceiro, tratamento imediato e acompanhamento pós-natal do recém-nascido.

Introducción: La neurosífilis es la presentación más grave de la sífilis adquirida y congénita, se presenta cuando Treponema pallidum penetra al sistema nervioso central. Este desarrollo puede ocurrir en cualquier momento durante la evolución de las fases de la enfermedad. En Brasil, en 2021, 2.343 niños nacidos con sífilis congénita fueron diagnosticados con neurosífilis, lo que representa el 9,3% del total. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la evidencia científica sobre las manifestaciones médicas que presentan los pacientes pediátricos afectados por neurosífilis. Métodos: en febrero de 2023, se investigaron las bases de datos PubMed, VHL, Scopus, Lilacs y Bdenf para obtener informes de casos publicados de pacientes de cero a menos de 18 años con infección por T. pallidum. El período de análisis de los datos abarcó 55 años. Resultados: Se encontraron nueve artículos en el período de publicación de 1967 a 2022. Hubo dos casos en el sexo femenino y solo uno con manifestación en un adolescente de neurosífilis adquirida. El caso de la adolescente fue el único con evolución favorable luego de un tratamiento adecuado. Otros casos resultaron en deterioro de la calidad de vida de los pacientes y familiares involucrados en el cuidado de niños. Conclusión: Los casos notificados de neurosífilis se relacionaron en su mayoría con un diagnóstico tardío. Evidenciando la fragilidad del control prenatal, que es fundamental para la prevención e intervención de la infección por T. pallidum que provoca graves consecuencias para el desarrollo infantil. Por lo tanto, las medidas de control deben centrarse en el tamizaje prenatal obligatorio durante el primer trimestre del embarazo, la notificación a la pareja, el tratamiento oportuno y el seguimiento posnatal del lactante.

Detection of gestational and congenital syphilis in Paraná state, Brazil, 2007-2021: a time series analysis / Detección de sífilis gestacional y congénita en Paraná, Brasil, 2007-2021: análisis de series temporales / Detecção de sífilis gestacional e congênita no Paraná, 2007-2021: análise de séries temporais

Abstract Objective: To describe temporal trends in the detection rates of gestational and congenital syphilis, by maternal age and health macro-region of the state of Paraná, Brazil, 2007-2021. Methods: This was a time-series study using surveillance data; the trend analysis was performed by means of joinpoint regression, and average annual percent change (AAPC) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated. Results: An increase in statewide detection of gestational syphilis (AAPC = 21.7; 95%CI 17.7; 32.8) and congenital syphilis (AAPC = 14.8; 95%CI 13.0; 19.7) was found; an increase was also found in the health macro-regions, with the Northwest (gestational, AAPC = 26.1; 95%CI 23.4; 31.6) and North (congenital, AAPC = 23.8; 95%CI 18.8; 48.9) macro-regions standing out; statewide rising trends were observed for young women [gestational, AAPC = 26.2 (95%CI 22.4; 40.6); congenital, AAPC = 19.4 (95%CI 17.6; 21.8)] and adult women [gestational, AAPC = 21.3 (95%CI 16.9; 31.9); congenital, AAPC = 13.7 (95%CI 11.9; 19.3)]. Conclusion: Maternal and child syphilis detection rates increased in the state, regardless of maternal age and health macro-region.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir las tendencias temporales en las tasas de detección de sífilis gestacional y congénita, por grupo de edad materna y macrorregión de salud de Paraná, 2007-2021. Métodos: Estudio de series temporales utilizando datos de vigilancia; se realizó análisis de tendencia mediante regresión segmentada, estimando cambios porcentuales anuales promedio (CPAP) e intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC95%). Resultados: Se identificaron aumentos en la detección estatal de sífilis gestacional (CPAP = 21,7; IC95% 17,7;32,8) y congénita (CPAP = 14,8; IC95% 13,0;19,7); las macrorregiones mostraron incrementos, destacándose la Noroeste (gestacional, CPAP = 26,1; IC95% 23,4;31,6) y la Norte (congénita, CPAP = 23,8; IC95% 18,8;48,9); las tendencias estatales fueron crecientes para mujeres jóvenes [gestacional, CPAP = 26,2 (IC95% 22,4;40,6); congénita, CPAP = 19,4 (IC95% 17,6;21,8)] y adultas [gestacional, CPAP = 21,3 (IC95% 16,9;31,9); congénita, CPAP = 13,7 (IC95% 11,9;19,3)]. Conclusión: Las tasas de detección de sífilis materno-infantil estuvieron en aumento en el estado, independientemente de la edad materna y la macrorregión de salud.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever as tendências temporais nas taxas de detecção de sífilis gestacional e congênita, por faixa etária materna e macrorregião de saúde do Paraná, Brasil, 2007-2021. Métodos: Estudo de séries temporais, utilizando-se dados de vigilância; realizou-se análise de tendência por regressão segmentada, sendo estimadas variações percentuais anuais médias (VPAM) e intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%). Resultados: Foram identificados acréscimos na detecção estadual de sífilis gestacional (VPAM = 21,7; IC95% 17,7;32,8) e congênita (VPAM = 14,8; IC95% 13,0;19,7); as macrorregiões de saúde registraram incrementos, destacando-se as macrorregiões Noroeste (gestacional, VPAM = 26,1; IC95% 23,4;31,6) e Norte (congênita, VPAM = 23,8; IC95% 18,8;48,9); as tendências estaduais foram crescentes para mulheres jovens [gestacional, VPAM = 26,2 (IC95% 22,4;40,6); congênita, VPAM = 19,4 (IC95% 17,6;21,8)] e mulheres adultas [gestacional, VPAM = 21,3 (IC95% 16,9;31,9); congênita, VPAM = 13,7 (IC95% 11,9;19,3)]. Conclusão: As taxas de detecção de sífilis materno-infantil foram ascendentes no estado, independentemente da idade materna e da macrorregião de saúde.

A completeness indicator of gestational and congenital syphilis information in Brazil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the quality of information on gestational syphilis (GS) and congenital syphilis (CS) on the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN-Syphilis Brazil - Notifiable Diseases Information System) by compiling and validating completeness indicators between 2007 and 2018. METHODS Overall, care, and socioeconomic completeness scores were compiled based on selected variables, by using ad hoc weights assigned by experts. The completeness scores were analysed, considering the region and area of residence, the pregnant woman's race/colour, and the year of case notification. Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to validate the scores obtained by the weighted average method, compared with the values obtained by principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS Most selected variables presented a good or excellent degree of completeness for GS and CS, except for clinical classification, pregnant woman's level of education, partner's treatment, and child's race/colour, which were classified as poor or very poor. The overall (89.93% versus 89.69%) and socioeconomic (88.71% versus 88.24%) completeness scores for GS and CS, respectively, were classified as regular, whereas the care score (GS-90.88%, and CS-90.72%) was good, despite improvements over time. Differences in the overall, care and socioeconomic completeness scores according to region, area of residence, and ethnic-racial groups were reported for syphilis notifications. The completeness scores estimated by the weighted average method and PCA showed a strong linear correlation (> 0.90). CONCLUSION The completeness of GS and CS notifications has been improving in recent years, highlighting the variables that form the care score, compared with the socioeconomic scores, despite differences between regions, area of residence, and ethnic-racial groups. The weighted average was a viable methodological alternative easily operationalised to estimate data completeness scores, allowing routine monitoring of the completeness of gestational and congenital syphilis records.

The challenges of the family health strategy in the incidence of congenital syphilis in Pernambuco, Brazil, between 2009 to 2018

INTRODUCTION: Syphilis is a health problem and an issue for maternal and child health. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the incidence of congenital syphilis (CS) and its relationship with the Family Health Strategy (FHS) in the state of Pernambuco, between 2009-2018. METHODS: Observational analytical retrospective study with secondary data provided by the Brazilian National Notifiable Diseases System of the Ministry of Health on syphilis infection during pregnancy, congenital syphilis, and FHS coverage information, made available on the e-Gestor AB platform, between 2009-2018. Microsoft Office Excel, JASP 0.14.1.0 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 25 programs, and Shapiro-Wilk test, Spearman, and Chi-Squared test were used for the organization and analysis of sociodemographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: 11,519 cases of CS were reported in Pernambuco between 2009-2018, with a 12% increase in the FHS coverage rate in the state and 376% growth in the detection rate of CS per thousand live births in the analyzed period. Of the maternal sociodemographic characteristics, there was a higher occurrence of infection in women aged 20 to 29 years (52.76%), black (77.53), and incomplete elementary school or no education (49.56%). In 90.29% of the cases, recent congenital syphilis was identified as the final diagnosis. The analysis also revealed that the greater the FHS coverage in the state, the greater the amount of inadequately performed treatments. CONCLUSION: The analysis of CS cases related to the FHS point to weaknesses in the control and proper treatment of the disease, especially in Black women with low education.

Factors associated with women diagnosed with syphilis who received prenatal care in a primary healthcare unit

ABSTRACT Objective To estimate the prevalence of syphilis and its associated factors in women who were treated at public maternity hospitals and received prenatal care in a primary healthcare unit. Methods This cross-sectional study included 399 postpartum women. Interviews were conducted, and additional data were extracted from the pregnant woman's booklet, medical records, and printed tests. The dependent variable was a gestational syphilis diagnosis. The independent variables were grouped into socioeconomic and demographic, behavioral, reproductive, and prenatal blocks. The prevalence, prevalence ratios, and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated. The χ 2 test was also performed (p≤0.05). Multivariate analysis was performed using Poisson regression models. Results The prevalence of gestational syphilis was 9.61% (95%CI: 7.14-12.83). We identified the following determining factors (adjusted prevalence ratios): history of sexually transmitted infections (2.3), first sexual intercourse by the age of 15 (2.42), partner having a history of syphilis (5.98), partner using crack/cocaine (6.42) and marijuana and others (3.02), not having a partner (3.07), low income (2.85), history of stillbirth (5.21), beginning prenatal care in the third trimester (3.15), and prenatal care received in a primary healthcare unit (without a Family Health Strategy team) (0.35). Conclusion Individual and prenatal factors were associated with gestational syphilis. To control congenital syphilis, targeted interventions are needed to control syphilis in the adult population including expansion of access to quality prenatal care with identification of risks for syphilis and connection between prevention and treatment actions, implementation of strategies focused on early sexual education, effective establish prenatal care involving both partners, and effective implementation of the National Men's Health Policy (PNAISH - Política Nacional de Atenção Integral à Saúde dos Homens ).

Sífilis congênita no Paraná: uma análise de série histórica (2012-2021) / Congenital syphilis in Paraná: a historical series analysis (2012-2021) / Sífilis congénita en Paraná: análisis de una serie histórica (2012-2021)

Analisar o perfil epidemiológico da sífilis congênita no Paraná entre os anos de 2012 a 2021. Estudo epidemiológico observacional descritivo, do tipo levantamento, a partir de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação disponíveis no DataSUS. O número de casos da sífilis congênita teve aumento de 19,7 a cada 10 mil nascidos vivos em 2012 para 51,4 em 2020. Das 22 regionais, Paranaguá, Pato Branco e Metropolitana registraram maior prevalência. O diagnóstico prevaleceu em crianças com até 6 dias de idade, da raça branca e resultante na cura diante do tratamento. Das mães, prevaleceu aquelas com baixa escolaridade. A maior parte dos casos ocorreu entre gestantes que realizaram o pré-natal, porém com parceiros não tratados. Há necessidade de investimento na educação em saúde às gestantes e educação continuada aos profissionais de saúde para o diagnóstico, monitoramento e tratamento da sífilis em gestante e, especialmente, nos parceiros.

To analyze the epidemiological profile of congenital syphilis in Paraná from 2012 to 2021. Observational descriptive epidemiological study, survey type, based on data from the Information System of Notifiable Diseases available at DataSUS. The number of cases of congenital syphilis increased from 19.7 per 10,000 live births in 2012 to 51.4 in 2020. Of the 22 regional units, Paranaguá, Pato Branco, and Metropolitana reported the highest prevalence. The diagnosis prevailed in white children of up to 6 days old, resulting in cure after treatment. Of the mothers, those with low level of education prevailed. Most cases occurred among pregnant women who had prenatal care, but with untreated partners. There is a need for investment in health education for pregnant women and continued education for health professionals for the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of syphilis in pregnant women and especially in partners.

Analizar el perfil epidemiológico de la sífilis congénita en Paraná entre los años 2012 y 2021. Estudio epidemiológico observacional, descriptivo, tipo encuesta, basado en datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria disponible en DataSUS. El número de casos de sífilis congénita aumentó de 19,7 por 10.000 nacidos vivos en 2012 a 51,4 en 2020. De las 22 regiones, Paranaguá, Pato Branco y Metropolitana registraron la mayor prevalencia. El diagnóstico prevaleció en niños de hasta 6 días de vida, blanco y resultando en la cura después del tratamiento. Entre las madres, predominaron las de baja escolaridad. La mayoría de los casos ocurrió entre embarazadas que tuvieron control prenatal, pero con parejas no tratadas. Es necesario invertir en la educación sanitaria de las gestantes y en la formación continuada de los profesionales de salud para el diagnóstico, seguimiento y tratamiento de la sífilis en embarazadas y, especialmente, en las parejas.

Syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis: women's experiences from the perspective of symbolic interactionism / Sífilis gestacional y congénita: experiencia de mujeres en la visión del Interaccionismo Simbólico / Sífilis gestacional e congênita: experiência de mulheres na ótica do Interacionismo Simbólico

ABSTRACT Objectives: to understand the meanings attributed by women to the diagnosis and treatment of syphilis and congenital syphilis, and to outpatient follow-up of their children. Methods: this is a qualitative study conducted with 30 mothers of children with congenital syphilis using audio-recorded semi-structured interviews, which were submitted to inductive thematic analysis. Symbolic interactionism was the theoretical framework considered in this study. Results: two themes were identified, showing the maternal diagnosis involved shock, guilt, and fear of social exclusion, in addition to frustration due to failure to prevent vertical transmission. Moreover, the painful clinical procedures for the child's treatment enhanced maternal guilt, and the symbolic process of re-signification of the disease/treatment took place with the child's healing. Final Considerations: understanding the intersubjective aspects involved in this experience helps nurses rethink their care practice and contributes to their critical role in the context of syphilis.

RESUMEN Objetivos: comprender el significado atribuido por las mujeres al diagnóstico de sífilis y sífilis congénita, al tratamiento y seguimiento ambulatorio del niño. Métodos: estudio cualitativo realizado con 30 madres de niños con sífilis congénita mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas, grabadas en audio y sometidas a Análisis Temático Inductivo. Se adoptó como referencial teórico el Interaccionismo Simbólico. Resultados: surgieron dos temas revelando que el diagnóstico materno fue teñido por shock, culpa y miedo a la exclusión social, además de frustración frente al fracaso que no permitió evitar la transmisión vertical. También los procedimientos clínicos dolorosos para el tratamiento de los niños potenciaron la culpa maternal, y el proceso simbólico de resignificación de la enfermedad/tratamiento se dio con la cura del niño. Consideraciones Finales: la comprensión de los aspectos intersubjetivos involucrados en esta experiencia instrumentan al enfermero para reconsiderar su práctica asistencial y contribuye a un mayor protagonismo en el contexto de la sífilis.

RESUMO Objetivos: compreender o significado atribuído pelas mulheres ao diagnóstico de sífilis e sífilis congênita, ao tratamento e acompanhamento ambulatorial da criança. Métodos: estudo qualitativo conduzido com 30 mães de crianças com sífilis congênita, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas, audiogravadas e submetidas a Análise Temática Indutiva. Adotou-se, por referencial teórico, o Interacionismo Simbólico. Resultados: dois temas emergiram e revelaram que o diagnóstico materno foi permeado por choque, culpa e medo da exclusão social, além de frustração ante o insucesso em evitar a transmissão vertical. Ainda, os procedimentos clínicos dolorosos para tratamento da criança potencializaram a culpa materna, e o processo simbólico de ressignificação da doença/tratamento aconteceu com a cura da criança. Considerações Finais: a compreensão dos aspectos intersubjetivos envolvidos nessa experiência instrumentaliza o enfermeiro para repensar sua prática assistencial e contribui para seu maior protagonismo no contexto da sífilis.

Congenital syphilis: performance of primary care services in São Paulo, 2017 / Sífilis congênita: desempenho de serviços da atenção primária paulista, 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate congenital syphilis prevention actions in primary health care services in the state of São Paulo. METHODS Cross-sectional evaluative research that used indicators extracted from the Survey of Evaluation and Monitoring of Primary Care Services ( Avaliação e Monitoramento de Serviços da Atenção Básica - QualiAB) in the state of São Paulo in 2017. An evaluative matrix composed of 31 indicators of prevention of congenital syphilis, categorized into four domains of analysis: diagnosis and treatment of acquired syphilis (10); basic infrastructure and resources (7); prevention of congenital syphilis during prenatal care (7); and educational actions and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (7). The frequency of services with positive responses for each indicator and the percentage of service performance were calculated based on the proportion of indicators reported per service and the overall average observed. Subsequently, services were classified into four quality groups, and associations between groups and each indicator, type of organizational arrangement and location were estimated. RESULTS 2,565 services participated, located in 503 municipalities, with an overall average performance of 74.9%. The domain "diagnosis and treatment of acquired syphilis" had the highest performance (89.8%), followed by "infrastructure and basic resources" (79.5%), "prevention of congenital syphilis in prenatal care" (73.3%) and "educational actions and prevention of sexually transmitted infections" (56.8%). There was a significant difference between quality groups and all indicators and types of organizational arrangements. CONCLUSIONS The evaluated services have limitations in the development of actions to prevent congenital syphilis, mainly related to health education and actions included in prenatal care, such as screening and adequate treatment of pregnant women and their partners. Changes are needed in the work process, with the expansion of educational and surveillance actions, as well as the qualification of the teams to effectively comply with the protocols.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar as ações de prevenção da sífilis congênita em serviços de atenção primária à saúde no estado de São Paulo. MÉTODOS Pesquisa avaliativa transversal que utilizou indicadores extraídos da aplicação do inquérito de Avaliação e Monitoramento de Serviços de Atenção Básica (QualiAB) no estado de São Paulo em 2017. Foi construída uma matriz avaliativa composta de 31 indicadores de prevenção da sífilis congênita, categorizados em quatro domínios de análise: diagnóstico e tratamento da sífilis adquirida (10); infraestrutura e recursos básicos (7); prevenção da sífilis congênita no pré-natal (7); e ações educativas e prevenção de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (7). Calculou-se a frequência dos serviços com respostas positivas para cada indicador e o percentual de desempenho dos serviços a partir da proporção de indicadores referida por serviço e da média geral observada. Posteriormente, os serviços foram classificados em quatro grupos de qualidade e foram estimadas associações entre os grupos e cada indicador, tipo de arranjo organizacional e localização. RESULTADOS Participaram 2.565 serviços, localizados em 503 municípios, com média geral de desempenho de 74,9%. O domínio "diagnóstico e tratamento da sífilis adquirida" obteve maior desempenho (89,8%), seguido de "infraestrutura e recursos básicos" (79,5%), "prevenção da sífilis congênita no pré-natal" (73,3%) e "ações educativas e prevenção de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis" (56,8%). Observou-se uma diferença significativa entre os grupos de qualidade e todos os indicadores e tipos de arranjos organizacionais. CONCLUSÕES Os serviços avaliados possuem limitações no desenvolvimento das ações de prevenção da sífilis congênita, principalmente relacionadas à educação em saúde e às ações inseridas no acompanhamento pré-natal, como rastreio e tratamento adequado da gestante e sua parceria. São necessárias mudanças no processo de trabalho, com a ampliação de ações educativas e de vigilância, assim como a qualificação das equipes para o cumprimento dos protocolos de maneira efetiva.

Sífilis congênita no Paraná e em suas cidades gêmeas: enfoque em Foz do Iguaçu / Congenital syphilis in Paraná and its twin cities: focus on Foz do Iguaçu / Sífilis congénita en Paraná y sus ciudades gemelas: foco en Foz de Iguazú

Objetivo: analisar a ocorrência de sífilis congênita no Paraná e suas cidades gêmeas, com enfoque em Foz do Iguaçu. Método: estudo transversal, retrospectivo, de abordagem quantitativa, com base em dados secundários coletados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação entre 2011 e 2020. Foram calculadas as taxas de incidência de sífilis congênita por 1.000 nascidos vivos. Resultados: no Paraná, foram notificados 6.088 casos de sífilis congênita. Desses, 338 foram em suas cidades gêmeas. A cidade com maior número de casos foi Foz do Iguaçu com 320 casos. No Paraná e em Foz do Iguaçu, as taxas médias de incidência anual foram de 3,9 e 7,3 casos/1.000 nascidos vivos (p<0,05), respectivamente. As características maternas de maior relevância foram diagnóstico de sífilis durante o pré-natal (65,9%) e com tratamento inadequado (41,3%) (p<0,05). Conclusão: as características maternas relacionadas a sífilis congênita requerem melhoria do acompanhamento pré-natal e viabilização de políticas públicas transfronteiriças(AU)

Objective: to analyze the occurrence of congenital syphilis in Paraná and its twin cities, with a focus on Foz do Iguaçu. Method: cross-sectional, retrospective study with a quantitative approach, based on secondary data collected in the Notifiable Diseases Information System between 2011 and 2020. The incidence rates of congenital syphilis per 1,000 live births were calculated. Results: in Paraná, 6,088 cases of congenital syphilis were reported. Of these, 338 were in its twin cities. The city with the highest number of cases was Foz do Iguaçu with 320 cases. In Paraná and Foz do Iguaçu, the average annual incidence rates were 3.9 and 7.3 cases/1,000 live births (p<0.05), respectively. The most relevant maternal characteristics were diagnosis of syphilis during prenatal care (65.9%) and inadequate treatment (41.3%) (p<0.05). Conclusion: maternal characteristics related to congenital syphilis require improvement in prenatal care and the feasibility of cross-border public policies(AU)

Objetivo: analizar la ocurrencia de sífilis congénita en Paraná y sus ciudades gemelas, con foco en Foz de Iguazú. Método: estudio transversal, retrospectivo, con enfoque cuantitativo, basado en datos secundarios recopilados en el Sistema de Información de Agravios, notificación entre 2011 y 2020. Se calcularon las tasas de incidencia de sífilis congénita por 1.000 nacidos vivos. Resultados: en Paraná se notificaron 6.088 casos de sífilis congénita. De ellos, 338 estaban en sus ciudades gemelas. La ciudad con mayor número de casos fue Foz de Iguazú con 320 casos. En Paraná y Foz de Iguazú, en promedio, las tasas de incidencia anual fueron de 3,9 y 7,3 casos/1.000 nacidos vivos (p<0,05), respectivamente. Las características maternas más relevantes fueron el diagnóstico de sífilis durante el control prenatal (65,9%) y el tratamiento inadecuado (41,3%) (p<0,05). Conclusión: las características maternas relacionadas con la sífilis congénita requieren la mejora de la atención prenatal y la implementación de políticas públicas transfronterizas(AU)