Syphilis. An old disease, a contemporary perinatal problem.

The incidence of syphilis in the United States has almost doubled in the past 5 years, with some cities posting an increase of more than 500% during this period. As a result, greater numbers of neonates infected with congenital syphilis are treated in nurseries across the country. The incidence, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of syphilis are described, and the nursing implications associated with caring for those at risk of contracting the disease are presented.