Neurosyphilis: The shape of a rising threat

Int J Infect Dis. 2018 Nov:76:1-3. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.07.022. Epub 2018 Aug 3.

Abstract

This report describes a case of neurosyphilis presenting with memory disturbances, attention deficit, and acute psychotic decompensation in an immunocompetent man. Despite the known connection of neurosyphilis with psychiatric symptoms, this cause often remains unrecognized. This report emphasizes the importance of maintaining a suspicion for the disease in patients with vague symptoms and describes the diagnostic difficulties.

Keywords: CSF pleocytosis; Dural thickening; Immunocompetence; Neurosyphilis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dementia / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Dementia / diagnosis*
  • Dementia / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuroimaging
  • Neurosyphilis / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Neurosyphilis / diagnosis*
  • Neurosyphilis / drug therapy
  • Psychological Tests

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents