[Syphilis as a cause of intrauterine fetal death].

Abstract

Syphilis is a rising concern in Denmark. In pregnancy, it can lead to congenital malformations, preterm birth, and intrauterine fetal death. We present a case where fetal death was diagnosed at gestational age 37. First- trimester syphilis screening was negative, but repeated screening in the third trimester detected syphilis infection. Treponema pallidum DNA was detected in amniotic fluid and skin swabs from the fetus; also, the spirochete was found in the placenta indicating transplacental transmission. Clinical symptoms can be subtle and therefore women with high-risk behavior could be re-tested.