Tabes Dorsalis

When the outer layers of nerve cells and fibers begin to degenerate, the condition is known as tabes dorsalis. It is typically the result of an untreated syphilis infection, and is more frequent in males than in females. Symptoms of tabes dorsalis usually begin about 25 to 30 years after the original syphilis infection, and may include weakness, foot ulcers, and loss of coordination.

 

Tabes Dorsalis: An Introduction

Tabes dorsalis is a slow degeneration of the covering of nerve cells and nerve fibers (known as myelin) that carry sensory information to the brain. The degenerating nerves are in the dorsal columns of the spinal cord (the portion closest to the back of the body) and carry information that help maintain a person's sense of position. Tabes dorsalis results when a syphilis infection goes untreated.
 

Who Does Tabes Dorsalis Affect?

Tabes dorsalis is more frequent in males than in females. The incidence of tabes dorsalis is rising, in part due to co-associated HIV infection. It is usually diagnosed during mid-life.
 

Symptoms of Tabes Dorsalis

Symptoms of tabes dorsalis usually begin about 25 to 30 years after the original syphilis infection. Common tabes dorsalis symptoms can include:
 
  • Episodes of intense pain and disturbed sensation
  • Weakness
  • Diminished reflexes
  • Unsteady gait
  • Foot slap
  • Progressive degeneration of the joints (Charcot's joints)
  • Foot ulcers
  • Loss of coordination
  • Personality changes
  • Dementia
  • Deafness
  • Visual impairment
  • Small, unusually shaped pupil with impaired response to light (Argyll Robertson pupil).
     
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD