Uveitis and desquamating rash of the palms and soles

Abstract

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum, can affect nearly every organ system in the body. In particular, skin manifestations of secondary syphilis are common but nonspecific and can be a true masquerader of other skin disorders. Concomitant infection with HIV has been increasing and may cause even more unusual skin presentations. We present a patient with the atypical combination of palmoplantar keratoderma and ocular symptoms that closely resembled reactive arthritis (or Reiter's syndrome). When evaluating patients with HIV infection, clinicians should maintain a high level of suspicion for syphilis to accurately diagnose and treat this curable but potentially fatal disease.