Erythroderma associated with secondary syphilis: A case report of unusual presentation and resurgence of the great imitator

Abstract

Syphilis is a chronic infection caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum. The wide range of clinical presentations of secondary syphilis has given it the nickname of “the great imitator”. Erythroderma is a generalized inflammatory reaction of the skin secondary to a wide variety of causes; however, it is not considered a common cutaneous manifestation of syphilis. Here, we presented the case of a 74-year-old Hispanic man who presented to our clinic with a history of chronic recurrent erythroderma. His medical history was not relevant except for previous unprotected sexual intercourses. Extensive work up to determine the cause of erythroderma was performed, resulting in positive for syphilis infection. Subsequent treatment of syphilis infection resulted in erythroderma remission.