Syphilis at age 15 years.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can manifest with diverse mucocutaneous signs.
• Palmar and plantar rashes are characteristic, though not exclusive, manifestations of secondary syphilis.
• Atypical presentations can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of considering syphilis in the differential diagnosis of palmar and plantar rashes.
• To emphasize the diagnostic challenge posed by nonpruritic rashes in adolescents with a history of sexually transmitted infections.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations.

Main Results:

• A 15-year-old female presented with a one-month history of a worsening, nonpruritic rash exclusively on her palms and soles.
• The patient had a history of two prior treatments for sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusions:

• The clinical presentation necessitates a high index of suspicion for syphilis.
• Early consideration of syphilis is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent complications.