Surgical Problems Associated With Tabes Dorsalis

Abstract

Tabes dorsalis presents three basic surgical problems. (1) A patient with tabetic gastric crisis may exhibit confusing symptoms suggesting ruptured peptic ulcer, biliary colic or other acute abdominal condition, and unnecessary operation must be avoided. Incorporation of a basic neurologic investigation in a thorough physical examination will do much to solve this problem.(2) Because two clinical entities may coexist in the same patient, it is best to investigate thoroughly for organic disease even though tabetic gastric crisis is suspected.(3) Tabes can mask serious organic disease, and an abdominal catastrophe may be unrecognized because of absence of pain, tenderness or rigidity.