[Syphilis proctitis complicated with HIV infection: a case report]

Kansenshogaku Zasshi. 2012 Jul;86(4):415-8. doi: 10.11150/kansenshogakuzasshi.86.415.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

We report on a 26-year-old Japanese man who was referred to our hospital because of anal pain and hematochezia. On admission, in addition to his gastrointestinal symptoms, a generalized maculopapular rash was observed, involving the palms of his hands and soles of his feet. His history and physical examination were compatible with syphilis, confirmed by a high syphilis titer on blood examination. Further tests revealed the presence of HIV infection, with a CD4 cell count of 227/microL. Colonoscopy demonstrated a deep ulcer in the lower rectum, although biopsy specimens did not reveal any syphilis spirochetes, or any other specific microorganisms. Intravenous penicillin G was initiated, resulting in a dramatic improvement of the ulcers along with the skin lesions confirming the diagnosis of syphilis proctitis. A rapid plasma reagin titer test performed 3 months after treatment demonstrated significant decrease, indicating successful treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • CD4 Lymphocyte Count
  • Coinfection / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Penicillin G / therapeutic use*
  • Proctitis / complications*
  • Proctitis / diagnosis
  • Proctitis / drug therapy
  • Syphilis / complications*
  • Syphilis / diagnosis
  • Syphilis / drug therapy
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Treponema pallidum / isolation & purification*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Penicillin G