Syphilitic Gummata in the Central Nervous System: A Narrative Review and Case Report about a Noteworthy Clinical Manifestation

Abstract

Infection with Treponema pallidum is on the rise. In this narrative literature review, we show that the incidence of rare manifestations of syphilis, such as intracerebral gummata, is increasing and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracerebral lesions. With the exemplary case that we present here, we aim to raise awareness of the resurgence of this disease, which should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracerebral lesions, especially for patients who have a risk profile for syphilis, and serological testing for T. pallidum prior to surgery should be discussed in order to avoid an unnecessary operation.

Neurosyphilis Presenting as Syndrome of Limbic Encephalitis Mimicking Herpes Simplex Virus Neuro-Infection Diagnosed Using CXCL13 Point-of-Care Assay—Case Report

“…The symptoms are often non-specific and diverse. The recent review of 50 cases describes a wide variety of symptoms, which most common were seizures, limb weakness, headaches, vertigo, dysarthria, aphasia, and mental alterations [ 9 ]. Our case study patient presented with a headache, unconsciousness, seizures with subsequent disorientation, and prefrontal syndrome.…”

“…Especially, late neurosyphilis might cause great differential diagnostic challenges because it often lacks specific signs or symptoms and can mimic a wide variety of other neurologic conditions [ 6 , 7 ]. A lack of awareness of possible neurosyphilis might result in delayed or missed diagnoses [ 8 , 9 ]. Neurosyphilis is one of the most severe forms of Treponema pallidum infection [ 6 ].…”