Secondary syphilis presenting as SAPHO syndrome features

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Synovitis, Acne, Pustulosis, Hyperostosis, and Osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is a rare autoinflammatory disorder.
• The etiology of SAPHO syndrome is not fully understood, but infections are suspected triggers.
• Low-virulence infections have been implicated in the development of SAPHO syndrome.

Observation:

• This case report details a patient who presented with SAPHO syndrome following an infection with syphilis.
• The patient's clinical manifestations met the diagnostic criteria for SAPHO syndrome.
• The patient's symptoms showed gradual improvement after initiating antibiotic treatment.

Findings:

• A direct correlation between Treponema pallidum infection and the induction of SAPHO syndrome is suggested.
• The resolution of SAPHO symptoms following antibiotic therapy indicates a potential link between bacterial infection and the syndrome.
• The exact mechanism, whether bacterial eradication or cessation of an autoinflammatory response, requires further investigation.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering infectious triggers, such as syphilis, in patients with SAPHO syndrome.
• Understanding the link between infections and rheumatic conditions like SAPHO syndrome can improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathogenic pathways connecting Treponema pallidum infection and SAPHO syndrome.