AIIMS November 2011 – MCQ 125

Premature baby of 34 weeks was delivered. Baby had bullous lesion on the body. X ray shows periostitis. What is the next investigation
a) VDRL for mother & baby
b) ELISA for HIV
c) PCR for T.B.
d) Hepatitis surface antigen for mother

( Repeat question – AIPGMEE 07 MK q242, also asked in AIIMS May 2007)

Correct answer : a) VDRL for mother & baby

Prematurity, bullous lesions and periostitis point towards the diagnosis of congenital syphilis. VDRL for mother and baby is the best investigation.