Tabes

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Tabes dorsalis is a late manifestation of untreated syphilis that involves progressive degeneration of the spinal cord. It is characterized by sharp, stabbing pains, lack of coordination, and progressive weakness.

Signs and Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of tabes dorsalis, like those of other forms of neurosyphilis, may not appear for many years after the initial infection. The most common symptoms include:

  • Ataxia or unsteady gait
  • Paresthesia or abnormal sensations in the skin
  • Severe, stabbing pains
  • Loss of muscle coordination
  • Progressive muscle weakness

Causes[edit | edit source]

Tabes dorsalis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which also causes syphilis. The bacterium damages the spinal cord and peripheral nerves, leading to the symptoms of the disease.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of tabes dorsalis involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Tests that may be done include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for tabes dorsalis involves antibiotics to kill the syphilis bacteria. Pain management and physical therapy may also be needed to manage symptoms.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for tabes dorsalis is good. However, if left untreated, the disease can lead to severe disability and even death.

See Also[edit | edit source]


Tabes Resources

Find a healthcare provider anywhere in the world quickly and easily!

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Admin, Prab R. Tumpati, MD