A case report of oral syphilis with suspected concomitant neurosyphilis

Abstract

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease induced by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, presents with diverse progression-based symptoms, and its incidence has exhibited a rising trend in recent years. Syphilis is frequently identified not only by genital or skin lesions but also by lesions on the oral mucosa. However, the diagnosis of oral syphilis remains challenging because of the diverse array of oral symptoms. Although neurosyphilis manifests at any stage, unfamiliarity with neurological symptoms among oral surgeons can lead to overlooking the potential presence of neurosyphilis. To effectively diagnose the increasing number of syphilis cases, a precise understanding of diverse oral and systemic manifestations, including neurological symptoms, is crucial. In this report, we delineate the case of a 37-year-old female with oral syphilis who was diagnosed based on lesions on the tongue and soft palate, prompting the consideration of neurosyphilis.