What percentage risk of fetal transmission is associated with primary and secondary syphilis?

The risk of fetal transmission associated with primary and secondary syphilis is significantly high, reaching approximately 50%. This high percentage reflects the nature of syphilis, particularly the early stages of the infection when the bacterium Treponema pallidum is actively proliferating and is most likely to cross the placental barrier, exposing the fetus to the infection.

Primary and secondary syphilis are the most infectious stages of the disease, and vertical transmission can lead to severe complications for the fetus, including stillbirth, prematurity, and congenital syphilis.

By understanding the dynamics of syphilis transmission during pregnancy, healthcare professionals can better manage screening and treatment protocols for expectant mothers, ultimately aiming to reduce the risks associated with this preventable infection.