Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-8-2024
Publication Title
Gynecologic Oncology Reports
Abstract
Introduction: Tertiary syphilis, a late form of the disease with neurologic, cutaneous, and cardiovascular manifestations, is rarely seen in the United States in modern times. Also called the “great imitator,” syphilis tends to mimic other disease processes, which can lead to a delay in proper diagnosis and treatment. Case: We present the case of a 59-year-old woman who presented for evaluation of possible squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva. After multiple inconclusive biopsies and extensive workup with multiple providers, she was instead found to have cutaneous and neurologic tertiary syphilis. A correct diagnosis was delayed in this patient due to a presentation not consistent with classical teachings and due to a lack of access to care. Conclusion: Syphilis has characteristic signs and symptoms, but in practice, it can have an indolent presentation that may differ from traditional presentations. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive case report of vulvar cutaneous syphilis masquerading as squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva. This case also provides additional evidence for the necessity of comprehensive gynecologic care and sexual history-taking in the post-menopausal populations and in rural communities.
Volume
55
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Nuss, R.M.; Lazenby, A.J.; Provost, Holly C.; and Castellano, Tara, "Syphilitic gumma presenting as squamous cell carcinoma of Vulva: A case report" (2024). School of Medicine Faculty Publications. 2946.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/som_facpubs/2946
10.1016/j.gore.2024.101478
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Bacterial Infections and Mycoses Commons, Diagnosis Commons, Female Urogenital Diseases and Pregnancy Complications Commons, Obstetrics and Gynecology Commons, Women's Health Commons