Secondary syphilis with polymorphous and sweet syndrome like lesions: A rare case report

Abstract

Secondary syphilis can present with wide range of mucocutaneous lesions. Because of its varied morphology, it is considered a great mimicker. However, syphilitic lesions presenting as Sweet syndrome is uncommon. We report a case of a 28 year adult male presenting with erythematous edematous papules and plaques with pseudovesicular appearance, lichenoid annular plaques on skin, and painless indurated ulcer over the glans. The Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test was reactive (1:32 dilutions), and treponema pallidum hemagglutination test was positive. The histopathology from erythematous edematous lesion and genital ulcer revealed neutrophilic abscess and characteristic plasmacytic picture in biopsy, respectively. He was treated successfully with single dose intramuscular injection of benzathin penicillin 2.4 million units. This case is reported for its rarity.

Keywords

• immunocompetent individual
• perifollicular pustules
• secondary syphilis
• sweet syndrome