Causes and risk factors
Njovera is an infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum. This disease is transmitted through contact with the fluid from lesions of an infected person. Broken skin, sharing vessels and utensils with infected person can transmit the disease. It is not sexually transmitted. The disease is common in dry, hot climates. It occurs in children aged 2 to 15 years.
Clinical presentation
Moist, ulcerated lesions of the skin or oral or nasopharyngeal mucosa are the most common manifestations. Ulcers in mouth, nose, throat, and skin are seen. There are blisters on the trunk, arms, and legs. Generalized lymphadenopathy is seen. Deep leg pain to the point of periostitis or osteomyelitis occurs. In the late stages of the disease, destructive gummatous lesions similar to those seen in yaws can develop, resulting in loss of cartilage and saber shin deformity [sharp anterior bowing of tibia – shin bone]. Due to soft, gummy lesions in the mouth, there is loss of nasal cartilage breaking through the mouth palate. Lesions are destructive, leaving scars.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine hemogram is recommended. Blood culture to detect the organism is done. Lymphatic fluid examination is necessary.
Treatment
Treatment involves antibiotic course. Preventive care is recommended to avoid reinfection. Maintenance of proper sanitation and hygiene and use of filtered water and boiled water, avoidance of contact with infected persons is required.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating njovera. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating njovera.
