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[A case of "early" syphilis].
A Sanchez1, P Del Giudice1, A Peneau2
1Service de dermatologie-infectiologie, CHI de Fréjus/Saint-Raphaël, 240, avenue Saint-Lambert, 83608 Fréjus, France.
This case highlights early syphilis in a teenager, indicating a shift in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) epidemiology. Increased high-risk behaviors and reduced STI knowledge among youth contribute to rising infection rates.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Syphilis predominantly impacts men who have sex with men (MSM) aged 20-49.
- The epidemic is expanding to include younger, previously unexposed populations.
- Adolescent syphilis cases are rising due to increased high-risk sexual behaviors.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old male presented with anal fissures and oral erosions.
- He reported recent unprotected anal intercourse with a peer.
- Positive syphilis serology (VDRL 1/128) and positive treponemal DNA PCR from lesions were confirmed.
Findings:
- The patient was treated with doxycycline due to penicillin allergy.
- Mucosal lesions resolved within one month.
- VDRL titers decreased by two dilutions over three months.
Implications:
- This case signifies a change in French sexually transmitted disease (STI) epidemiology.
- It underscores a concerning decline in STI knowledge among teenagers.
- Public health initiatives are needed to address rising STI rates in adolescents.
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