Tabes
Tabes Dorsalis
Tabes dorsalis (/ˈteɪbiːz dɔːrˈsælɪs/), also known as locomotor ataxia, is a late manifestation of untreated syphilis. It is characterized by degeneration of the dorsal columns of the spinal cord, resulting in a specific form of progressive neurodegeneration.
Etymology
The term "tabes" is derived from the Latin word for "wasting", while "dorsalis" refers to the location of the degeneration in the dorsal (posterior) columns of the spinal cord.
Symptoms
Symptoms of tabes dorsalis include ataxia, loss of deep tendon reflexes, paresthesia, muscle weakness, and abnormalities in gait. Other symptoms may include Argyll Robertson pupil, a condition where the pupils constrict when the patient focuses on a near object but do not react to light, and Charcot joint, a degenerative condition affecting weight-bearing joints.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of tabes dorsalis involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, as well as specific tests such as a lumbar puncture to examine the cerebrospinal fluid. Blood tests may also be conducted to confirm the presence of syphilis antibodies.
Treatment
Treatment for tabes dorsalis primarily involves the administration of penicillin, an antibiotic effective against the syphilis bacterium. In addition to antibiotic therapy, supportive treatments such as physical therapy may be beneficial for managing symptoms.
Prognosis
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the progression of tabes dorsalis can be halted, and some symptoms may improve. However, nerve damage that has already occurred is generally irreversible.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tabes
- Wikipedia's article - Tabes
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