PREVALENCE OF SYPHILIS AMONG PATIENTS IN A DENTAL CLINIC IN ENUGU, NIGERIA

Objective: to examine the prevalence of syphilis among patients attending the dental clinic of the federal school of dental technology and therapy, enugu, nigeria. methodology: venous blood samples randomly collected from 46 female and 54 male patients were screened for antibodies to treponema pallidum using syphilis ultra rapid test strip (acon, usa). results: the result of the study showed that out of the 100 patients screened, 1% yielded positive for treponema pallidum antibody. conclusion: while the occurrence rate was low, it nevertheless constitutes a viable source of occupational infection. the need for observance of standard precautionary measures by dental professionals and proper sterilization of instruments are emphasized.