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Ischemic Stroke Secondary to Meningovascular Syphilis
Marissa Nicolas-Cagigal1, Aaron Lee1, Juan C Sarria2
1John Sealy School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
Summary
Meningovascular syphilis, a rare complication of syphilis, can mimic stroke. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further neurological damage and strokes, especially in individuals with HIV.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Syphilis, caused by *Treponema pallidum*, is known as "the great imitator" due to its diverse clinical presentations.
- Meningovascular syphilis, a CNS manifestation, can present as an ischemic stroke, mimicking neurovascular disease.
- Untreated treponemal-induced arteritis increases stroke risk, underscoring the need for timely recognition.
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