Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
neurosyphilis

neurosyphilis

1 9.9
Infection of the brain and spinal cord by the syphilis germ that causes problems with thinking and moving
  • noun
  • /ˌnʊroʊˈsɪfɪlɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : neurosífilis

Examples

  • Neurosyphilis?

    Capone (1975)

  • Patients with untreated syphilis may eventually develop neurosyphilis, leading to significant neurological issues.

  • Symptoms of neurosyphilis can include severe headaches, confusion, and difficulty with coordination.

  • If neurosyphilis is diagnosed early, treatment can prevent further damage to the nervous system.

Surface Forms

neurosyphilis singular
neurosyphilises plural

Morphology

neurosyphilis = syphilis (semi-transparent) = neuro + syphilis

The word is built transparently from 'neuro-' meaning nervous system and 'syphilis', but the result is a specialized medical term rather than an everyday combination.

Etymology

Neurosyphilis combines neuro- ('nerve') and syphilis (the disease), so it literally means 'syphilis of the nerves'. That's why the word refers to syphilis that affects the brain and nervous system.