tabes dorsalis

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tabes dorsalis (locomotor ataxia) (tay-beez dor-sah-lis) n. a form of neurosyphilis occurring 5–20 years after the original sexually transmitted infection. The infecting organisms progressively destroy the sensory nerves. Severe stabbing pains in the legs and trunk, an unsteady gait, and loss of bladder control are common. See also syphilis, general paralysis of the insane.

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