Sudden deafness in a patient with secondary syphilis

To emphasise the importance of considering a diagnosis of early acquired syphilis in all sexually active adults, and to review the ENT manifestations and treatment of acquired syphilis.

A 24-year-old woman presented with sudden hearing loss, and subsequently developed clinical features suggestive of secondary syphilis. She was seen in the departments of ENT, dermatology, rheumatology and infectious diseases before a correct diagnosis was made. Treatment resulted in only partial recovery of hearing.

With the exponential rise in syphilis cases in the UK, there has been a re-emergence of presenting manifestations that had previously become rare. Early syphilis should be considered in all sexually active adults who present with deafness, as prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for maximum recovery.