Related Experiment Videos
With this eruption, there is not a second to lues
Steven D Burdette1, Jill S Waibel, Jack M Bernstein
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Wright State University School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45428, USA.
Skinmed
|May 14, 2005
Summary
This case study highlights secondary syphilis presenting as a widespread rash in an HIV-positive man. Early diagnosis and penicillin treatment led to complete resolution of the syphilis rash.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Secondary syphilis is a systemic manifestation of Treponema pallidum infection.
- HIV-positive individuals may present with atypical or severe manifestations of syphilis.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old HIV-positive man presented with a progressive maculopapular eruption on his face, trunk, and extremities.
- The rash evolved to include palmar involvement and fine scale collarettes.
- A history of a rectal ulcer preceded the dermatologic findings.
Findings:
- Histopathology revealed interface dermatitis with spirochetes consistent with Treponema pallidum.
- Serological tests showed reactive Rapid Plasma Reagin and Fluorescent Treponema Antibody with a VDRL of 1:16.
- The patient was diagnosed with secondary syphilis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering syphilis in the differential diagnosis of widespread rashes, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with benzathine penicillin are crucial for resolution and preventing complications.
- Public health efforts should focus on screening and early intervention for syphilis in at-risk populations.