Secondary syphilis in oral cavity: Case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis is the most common sexually transmitted infection and may have heterogeneous clinical features. There are several studies that report the incidence and clinical features of secondary syphilis, but little emphasis is placed on unusual clinical patterns. Here, we report a case of secondary intraoral syphilis with the appearance of whitish plaques. Case Report: A 30-year-old woman complained of multiple plaques in the oral cavity that had not healed for 15 days. An incisional biopsy was performed and revealed histological features consistent with syphilis. Serological test of venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) and fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) were reactive. Diagnosis of secondary syphilis was closed. The patient underwent penicillin therapy. Conclusion: In conclusion, secondary syphilis can become a potential diagnostic challenge due to the distinct clinical spectrum.