Papulosquamous dermatitis. Syphilis: a forgotten disease?

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by *Treponema pallidum*, remains a significant global health concern.
• Despite advances in treatment, syphilis incidence has seen fluctuations, necessitating continued vigilance in diagnosis and management.
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) co-infection is common among individuals with syphilis, influencing clinical presentation and treatment strategies.

Observation:

• A case of secondary syphilis is presented in a 54-year-old bisexual male with a known history of HIV infection.
• The patient's presentation underscores the diverse clinical manifestations of secondary syphilis.
• This case occurred in a contemporary setting, indicating that syphilis, while less common, is still encountered.

Findings:

• The diagnosis of secondary syphilis was confirmed in the index patient.
• The case emphasizes that syphilis can present in individuals with HIV, challenging assumptions about its declining prevalence.
• Diagnostic considerations for syphilis should remain broad, encompassing diverse patient populations.

Implications:

• Healthcare providers must maintain a high index of suspicion for syphilis, even in the current era.
• Screening protocols for sexually transmitted infections should be robust and inclusive of syphilis, irrespective of patient HIV status.
• Public health efforts should continue to focus on syphilis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to curb transmission.