Clinical Study
Eye (2006) 20, 703–705. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701954; published online 3 June 2005
Ocular syphilis: the new epidemic
The authors have no proprietary or financial interest in any product, drug, instrument, or device discussed in this article
J P Doris1, K Saha1, N P Jones1 and A Sukthankar2
- 1Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester, UK
- 2Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
Correspondence: NP Jones, The Royal Eye Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WH, UK. Tel: +44 161 276 5628; Fax: +44 161 272 6618; E-mail: nicholas.jones@cmmc.nhs.uk
Received 8 April 2005; Accepted 23 April 2005; Published online 3 June 2005.
Abstract
Aim
To present the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of syphilitic uveitis in the context of an epidemic of syphilis in the UK.
Method
Retrospective clinical case series.
Results
Six new cases of syphilitic uveitis presented to the Manchester Uveitis Clinic in 2004, after a 15-fold increase in the incidence of syphilis in the UK, including 615 cases in Greater Manchester in the 5 years to 2004. Four cases had secondary syphilis, two had latent disease, two had no rash, and two were HIV positive. Ocular involvement included anterior or panuveitis, retinitis, retinal vasculitis, and papillitis. All resolved on treatment including intramuscular procaine penicillin G with oral probenecid.
Conclusions
Syphilis is much more common recently and syphilitic uveitis should be considered in all patients with rash and/or headache, where there is retinitis and/or retinal vasculitis, or in any uveitis of uncertain origin. Treatment is that of neurosyphilis.
Keywords:
syphilis, ocular syphilis, uveitis, retinitis
