Journal List > Infect Chemother > v.42(4) > 1035023

Kim, Jung, Kim, Song, Ko, and Pai: A Case of Neurosyphilis with Acute Optic Neuritis and Trochlear Nerve Palsy in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infected Male

Abstract

With the increase in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the incidence of syphilis also increased worldwide presenting with diverse clinical manifestations. We experienced a case of symptomatic early neurosyphilis manifesting as optic neuritis and trochlear nerve palsy with typical skin lesions of secondary syphilis in an HIV-Infected patient. Intravenous penicillin and oral steroid were administered for 2 weeks. Skin lesions improved after a week, and ocular lesions resolved completely after eight weeks of treatment.

Figures and Tables

Figure 1
The patient has multiple erythematous scaly annular plaques on the scrotum (A), palm (B), and sole (C).
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Figure 2
At the time of diagnosis, right eye demonstrates severe papillary edema with surrounding neuroretinal edema. The retinal vein is slightly dilated. Hyperemic appearance and peripapillary splinter hemorrhage suggest an acute condition.
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Figure 3
After 3 days of treatment, there is no improvement in the right eye.
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Figure 4
Two weeks after the treatment with penicillin and steroid, right papillary edema has improved and peripapillary retinal vasculature returns to normal. However, mild disc hyperemia is still seen.
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Figure 5
Eight weeks after the treatment, right eye shows sharp disc margin and normal pinkish color.
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