Tertiary Syphilis-Induced Ocular Syphilis Complicated by Retinal Detachment
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Tertiary syphilis can cause eye diseases such as ocular syphilis and retinal detachment. Herein, we present a case of a 28-year-old male with no reported past medical history. He presented to the emergency department with complaints of pain, blurriness, and vision loss in his left eye, leading to a fall during a recent ophthalmologist visit. Diagnosis typically relies on detailed clinical examination, lumbar punctures, and serological testing to diagnose and manage the patient's condition. The results of these tests led to the diagnosis of tertiary syphilis-induced ocular syphilis complicated by retinal detachment, which was treated with penicillin G intravenously (IV) daily. The patient was transferred to a long-term acute care facility with an ophthalmologist follow-up post-admission. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and emphasizing timely diagnosis of ocular syphilis and proper disease management as a crucial factor in preventing permanent vision loss.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.81240
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408853692