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Syringomyelia complicating syphilitic spinal meningitis: a case report.
K K Bulundwe1, C J Myburgh, R F Gledhill
1Department of Neurology, MEDUNSA/Ga-Rankuwa and Pedimed Hospital, Reitfontein, South Africa.
European Journal of Neurology
|May 16, 2000
Summary
Syringomyelia associated with spinal syphilis is rare but treatable. A contemporary case showed significant recovery with penicillin, improving both clinical symptoms and MRI findings.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Syringomyelia and spinal syphilis were historically linked but rarely reported in modern literature.
- This association highlights the importance of considering neurosyphilis in syringomyelia cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a contemporary case of syringomyelia secondary to spinal syphilis.
- To document the clinical and radiological outcomes following antibiotic treatment.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to diagnose and monitor the condition.
- Treatment with penicillin was administered to the patient.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with clinical symptoms consistent with syringomyelia.
- MRI confirmed the presence of syringomyelia.
- Significant clinical improvement was observed post-penicillin therapy.
- Radiological findings on MRI showed a reduction in the severity of syringomyelia.
Conclusions:
- Spinal syphilis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of syringomyelia.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with penicillin can lead to substantial recovery.
- This case underscores the resurgence of syphilis and its diverse neurological manifestations.