Purpose: To describe an unusual case of simultaneous bilateral exudative retinal detachment and peripheral necrotizing retinitis as presenting manifestations of concurrent HIV and syphilis infection.
Case report: A previously healthy 35-year-old Caucasian male was first seen for bilateral sudden visual loss. Ophthalmoscopy showed bilateral exudative retinal detachment involving the posterior pole and a placoid-like area of peripheral necrotizing retinitis in his left eye. Physical examination revealed anal condylomata and aphthous oral lesions. Laboratory investigations confirmed the diagnosis of concurrent HIV and syphilis infection. Ocular lesions resolved in response to anti-syphilitic medication administered for three weeks.
Discussion: This case demonstrates the importance of considering syphilis as a cause of atypical retinitis in the HIV-positive population.