tabes dorsalis

a complication of SYPHILIS , occuring five to 20 years after the initial infection. It affects the SENSORY nerves, especially of the trunk and legs, causing stabbing pains and unsteadiness in walking. There is often loss of bladder control and disturbance of vision if the optic NERVES are involved. Treatment is by means of PENICILLIN , and the condition may be associated with taboparesis, which is also called general paralysis of the insane.