tertiary syphilis

noun, Pathology
1.
the third stage of syphilis, characterized by involvement of the internal organs, especially the brain, spinal cord, heart, and liver.
Origin
1870-75
Examples from the web for tertiary syphilis
  • Symptoms of tertiary syphilis depend on which organs have been affected.
  • Untreated, late-stage tertiary syphilis can cause inflammation and blockage of the arteries that supply the brain.
tertiary syphilis in Medicine

tertiary syphilis n.
The final stage of syphilis, marked by gumma formation, cellular infiltration, and cardiovascular and central nervous system lesions.

Encyclopedia Article for tertiary syphilis

general paralysis of the insane

psychosis caused by widespread destruction of brain tissue occurring in some cases of late syphilis. Mental changes include gradual deterioration of personality, impaired concentration and judgment, delusions, loss of memory, disorientation, and apathy or violent rages. Convulsions are not uncommon, and while temporary remissions sometimes occur, untreated paresis is eventually fatal.

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