Multimodal imaging in syphilitic retinitis with vasculitis in an immunocompetent patient

Abstract

A 47-year-old male reported a sudden diminution of vision in the left eye for 1 month. Fundus examination showed dense vitritis, retinal hemorrhages around the disc with subretinal precipitates. Peripheral examination revealed snowball opacities. Multimodal imaging indicated syphilitic retinitis with vascular leakage. A complete systemic workup was performed to support the diagnosis. Intramuscular benzathine penicillin injection along with oral corticosteroids showed an excellent response as confirmed by the multimodal imaging. Syphilitic retinitis with vasculitis is uncommon and can occur in immunocompetent patients. Multimodal imaging can be used to demonstrate the extent of involvement and to monitor treatment response.