Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Author Spotlight: Unveiling Prognostic Indicators in Heart Failure - The Role of Phase Angle and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis
Published on: June 30, 2023
An Emergency Department Presentation of Secondary Syphilis
Simon A Sarkisian1, Daniel Brillhart1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, 36065 Santa Fe Avenue, Fort Hood, TX.
Abstract:
In the United States, the rate of primary and secondary syphilis has increased by 18% in 2016, the highest rate since 1993. These patients can often present to the emergency department (ED) in various stages. Although syphilis is well described in the literature, there is a paucity of ED reports of atypical cases. A 22-yr-old male presented to the ED complaining of neck pain. The patient was found to have right-sided tender cervical lymphadenopathy causing neck pain. A thorough physical exam revealed diffuse lymphadenopathy. Without an obvious infectious etiology, the patient underwent a broad workup, which revealed a reactive rapid plasma reagin (RPR) assay with a titer of 1:64. The patient had no history of the classic painless penile ulcer. The ED presentation of secondary syphilis can be very insidious, and physicians should be aware of its various presentations.
More Related Videos
07:52Expired CO2 Measurement in Intubated or Spontaneously Breathing Patients from the Emergency Department
Published on: January 29, 2011
09:52Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide
Published on: January 15, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Self-Presentation
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Strategies of Self-Presentation I: Strategic Self-Presentation
Processes of Self-Presentation
Primary and Secondary Growth in Roots and Shoots
Emerging Adulthood