Neurosyphilis Presenting as Sleep Disorder and Muscle Soreness Complicated With HIV Infection: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Neurosyphilis, a complication of syphilis caused by Treponema pallidum, affects the central nervous system.
• Increasing syphilis incidence globally, linked to lifestyle changes and unprotected sex, contributes to rising neurosyphilis cases.
• Neurosyphilis often presents with nonspecific symptoms, mimicking spinal cord diseases and mental disorders, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

• This case report details a rare presentation of neurosyphilis with predominant sleep disorders and generalized muscle soreness.
• The patient was coinfected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a common comorbidity in neurosyphilis cases.
• The atypical symptoms posed diagnostic challenges, underscoring the need for broader differential diagnoses.

Findings:

• Neurosyphilis can manifest with atypical neurological symptoms beyond typical brain or spinal cord involvement.
• HIV coinfection is a significant factor in the prevalence and presentation of neurosyphilis.
• Early diagnosis of neurosyphilis is crucial but challenging due to nonspecific and varied clinical manifestations.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering neurosyphilis in patients presenting with unexplained sleep disturbances and muscle pain, especially with HIV.
• Emphasizes the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding the diverse clinical spectrum of neurosyphilis.
• Contributes to understanding the complex interplay between syphilis, HIV, and neurological complications.