Descriptive analysis of syphilis cases reported in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil identifies failure in treatment

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2019 Apr 25:52:e20180026. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0026-2018.

Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis infection remains an alarming public health problem worldwide.

Methods: This study analyzed syphilis cases listed in the Information System on Diseases of Compulsory Declaration (SINAN) of Mato Grosso do Sul state in Brazil between January 2013 and December 2014.

Results: Most of the evaluated syphilis cases would have been preventable through public education, particularly congenital syphilis in children of previously diagnosed mothers and infection by untreated sexual partners.

Conclusions: The incidence rate of syphilis could be reduced by improving prevention through counselling on the risk of infection, improving access to condoms, and increasing the frequency of diagnostic tests.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brazil / epidemiology
  • Disease Notification
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / epidemiology*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Syphilis / epidemiology*
  • Syphilis, Congenital / epidemiology
  • Treatment Failure
  • Young Adult