Tabes Dorsalis - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Tabes Dorsalis

Tabes Dorsalis Description

Rare complication of third stage syphilis (see separate entry).

Tabes Dorsalis Cause

Development of a syphilitic deposit in the spinal cord.

Tabes Dorsalis Symptom

Repetitive, brief, severe pain in the legs, back, chest, and sometimes arms and face. Some patients develop poor coordination of the legs and difficulty in walking.

Investigation

Tests for syphilis positive. Abnormal reflexes detected.

Tabes Dorsalis Treatment

Antibiotics treat the syphilis and prevent progression of the disease.

Complications

Loss of bladder control, vomiting, abdominal pain, and abnormal sensations.

Prognosis of Tabes Dorsalis

No cure for existing symptoms.