Never forget ocular syphilis: A case series from a single tertiary centre

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Ocular syphilis is a re-emerging infectious disease.
• Syphilis can present with diverse ocular manifestations.
• Co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze cases of ocular syphilis.
• To review treatment modalities and outcomes.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 10 consecutive patients with serologically confirmed ocular syphilis.
• Review of patient data from June 2020 to February 2023.
• Analysis of various antibiotic treatment regimens and adjunctive therapies.

Main Results:

• All 10 patients presented with ocular manifestations.
• Eight patients had syphilis, and two had syphilis/HIV co-infection.
• Diverse antibiotic treatments were administered, including benzyl-penicillin G, ceftriaxone, and doxycycline.

Conclusions:

• Ocular syphilis is a re-emerging public health issue.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial.
• Effective treatment can prevent severe ocular complications and vision loss.