Secondary syphilis: A case mimicking erythema multiforme clinically and pathologically

Abstract

Secondary syphilis, the hematogenous spread of Treponema pallidum, usually occurs 4-10 weeks after initial exposure. The skin is involved in 70% of cases, with maculopapular, vesiculobullous, and ulcerative morphologies possible at presentation, making the diagnosis of secondary syphilis challenging given its ability to mimic many other conditions. We present an atypical case of secondary syphilis that closely resembled erythema multiforme (EM) clinically and histologically. © 2013 by the article author(s).