Revival of syphilis in Malaga

INTRODUCTION: In our milieu, syphilis has been truly rare in recent years, although it has never ceased to be present. However, we would like to draw attention to its recent revival, presenting with certain peculiarities. PATIENTS ADN METHODS: The characteristics of 12 cases of syphilis diagnosed in our dermatology department between June and December 2004 were studied. RESULTS: Only one of the 12 patients, whose ages ranged from 20 to 48, was female, and six were homosexual. Five of the latter and one heterosexual were also infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. Three patients were diagnosed in the primary stage, while the other nine showed alterations characteristic of the second stage, although five of them were not aware of having had chancres or adenopathies. Serology tests were key to the diagnosis, because of the great variety of clinical manifestations. All of the patients responded well to penicillin treatment. CONCLUSION: Luetic serology should be performed in patients with symptoms that suggest secondary syphilis, especially in homosexuals and those who are HIV positive.