Challenges in the Diagnosis of Tertiary Syphilis: Case Report with Literature Review

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Dec 17;19(24):16992. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192416992.

Abstract

Tertiary syphilis is a large diagnostic challenge. It is rarely the case that it affects the skin, bone tissue and the eyes at the same time. The presented case shows that extensive symptomatology of syphilis poses a challenge in making a proper diagnosis in patients whose history does not suspect STDs. The study aims to present the case of a young woman hospitalized with a suspected autoimmune disease, diagnosed with symptomatic late syphilis with involvement of the skin, bones and eyes.

Keywords: diagnosis; tertiary syphilis; treatment.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Skin
  • Syphilis* / diagnosis
  • Syphilis* / drug therapy

Supplementary concepts

  • Syphilis, tertiary

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.