An Incidental Diagnosis of Neurosyphilis: A Case Report

Neurosyphilis, a rare manifestation of Treponema pallidum spreading into the central nervous system, is a critical differential diagnosis due to its potentially severe neurologic effects if left untreated. We present a case of a 37-year-old woman who complained of bilateral vision loss and headaches originally concerning for idiopathic intracranial hypertension and uncontrolled diabetes. Comprehensive evaluations eventually led to a neurosyphilis diagnosis. Ophthalmologic examination revealed multifactorial visual symptoms with diabetic retinopathy contributing alongside neurosyphilis. Treatment was started promptly at the time of diagnosis and resulted in improvement in visual symptoms. This case emphasizes the importance of syphilis screening in appropriate age ranges, even in low-prevalence areas. Recognition of neurosyphilis as a potential diagnosis can impact patient outcomes and highlights the need for continued vigilance to identify the disease.