Tumor-like scalp lesions in a patient with ocular syphilis
Abstract
A 50-year-old man, with no prior history of sexually transmitted infections and negative screening for HIV, HBV, HCV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, presented with progressive visual loss and was diagnosed with syphilitic retinitis [1]. Systemic examination revealed no rash on the trunk, palms, soles, oral mucosa, or genitalia. Two painless tumor-like nodular lesions on the scalp—firm, hyperpigmented, and dome-shaped (Figure 1A) —were initially presumed to be keloids; however, other differential diagnoses, including adnexal tumors, cutaneous lymphoma, and sarcoidosis, were also considered, and the lesions had been scheduled for surgical excision at another facility.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Syphilis Diagnosis and Treatment
Fungal Infections and Studies
Dermatology and Skin Diseases
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Infectious Diseases
- Volume
- 164
- Pages
- 108410–108410
- Publication date
- 19 January 2026
- Language
- EN