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Neurosyphilis as a great imitator: a case report
Liis Sabre1,2, Mark Braschinsky3,4, Pille Taba3,4
1Department of Neurology, Neurology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 8 L. Puusepa Street, 51014, Tartu, Estonia. liis.sabre@kliinikum.ee.
BMC Research Notes
|July 29, 2016
Summary
Neurosyphilis, a central nervous system infection, can cause rare movement disorders and dementia. Early diagnosis and penicillin treatment significantly improve cognitive and motor functions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neurosyphilis involves central nervous system infection by Treponema pallidum.
- Movement disorders are rare but documented manifestations of syphilis.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old man presented with rapidly progressive dementia, myoclonus, cerebellar ataxia, and parkinsonism.
- Initial assessment revealed a Mini-Mental State Examination score of 12/30, with neurodegenerative causes excluded.
- Diagnostic evaluation confirmed neurosyphilis.
Findings:
- Treatment with penicillin resulted in significant improvement.
- Six months post-treatment, the patient's Mini-Mental State Examination score increased to 25/30.
- Complete resolution of myoclonus, parkinsonism, and cerebellar dysfunction was observed.
Implications:
- Syphilis is a treatable cause of cognitive impairment and movement disorders.
- Testing for syphilis is crucial in patients presenting with these neurological symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to substantial recovery.
