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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
10:10
Full-Circle Cauterization of Limbal Vascular Plexus for Surgically Induced Glaucoma in Rodents
Published on: February 15, 2022
[Ocular syphilis]
Dieter Schmidt1, Carolina Berghorn, Jutta Wiek
1Augenklinik, Universität Freiburg. schmidtd@aug.ukl.uni-freiburg.de
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|July 24, 2002
Summary
Syphilis can cause diverse eye conditions, including iritis, vasculitis, neuroretinitis, venous occlusion, and optic disc swelling. Early diagnosis through serologic testing is crucial, especially in older adults with unexplained ocular inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Syphilis incidence has risen, necessitating awareness of its varied ocular manifestations.
- Understanding the spectrum of syphilitic eye disease is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- Four patients (ages 34-71) presented with typical and atypical ocular syphilis.
- Diagnosis in three patients was primarily based on inflammatory eye changes.
Findings:
- Ocular findings included iritis, neuroretinitis with macular exudates, optic disc swelling, venous occlusion, and placoid chorioretinitis.
- Optic disc swelling was a common feature across all observed cases.
Implications:
- Syphilis should be considered in older patients with unexplained uveitis, optic nerve disease, or pupillary abnormalities.
- Serologic testing is recommended for suspected cases to confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate management.
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