The atypical course of syphilis in HIV infection
Mahrle, G.; Rasokat, H.; Kurz, K.; Steigleder, G.K.
Zeitschrift für Hautkrankheiten 64(5): 393-394; 397
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-0481 PMID: 2741530 Document Number: 336544
We report on 3 HIV patients showing atypical courses of syphilis. Both the history and serology of the first patient proved a recent re-infection with T. pallidum, whereas the histopathological findings corresponded to an advanced stage of the disease (S II-III). The second patient showed the clinical picture of syphilis maligna with slowly converting and slightly positive serological reactions. The third patient had a refractory syphilis and an early relapse. Our observations suggest that syphilis might take an unusual course in HIV patients. Considering our total HIV clientèle (800 patients greater than or equal to WR 2) the frequency of these atypical cases must be rated very low (0.38%).