Wimberger's sign

Wimberger's Sign is a medical term referring to a specific radiological finding in the bones of infants and young children. It is named after the German radiologist, Paul Wimberger, who first described the sign in 1926. The sign is often associated with congenital syphilis, but can also be seen in other conditions such as rickets, scurvy, and neonatal infection.

Definition

Wimberger's Sign is defined as the bilateral and symmetrical destruction of the medial portions of the proximal tibial metaphyses. This is often seen as a radiolucent (dark) area on X-ray images. The sign is considered pathognomonic (specifically indicative) of congenital syphilis when seen in infants and young children.

Clinical Significance

The presence of Wimberger's Sign is a strong indicator of congenital syphilis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition if left untreated. Early detection and treatment of congenital syphilis is crucial to prevent long-term complications such as neurosyphilis, Hutchinson's teeth, and saddle nose deformity.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Wimberger's Sign is typically made through radiographic imaging, usually an X-ray of the lower extremities. The characteristic finding is a bilateral and symmetrical radiolucent area in the medial portions of the proximal tibial metaphyses.

Treatment

The treatment for conditions associated with Wimberger's Sign, such as congenital syphilis, involves the administration of appropriate antibiotics, usually penicillin. Early treatment can help prevent the progression of the disease and the development of long-term complications.

See Also

• Congenital syphilis
• Radiology
• Paul Wimberger

References

• Wimberger, P. (1926). Über eine bisher nicht beschriebene eigentümliche Knochenveränderung bei Lues connata. Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift, 52(48), 1885-1886.

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