Ocular Syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Co-infection: A Case Report

Authors

  • Bhagya Segu Michael E. Debakey VA medical center
  • Yun-Ting Lisa Huang
  • Justin Alexander University of Houston
  • Theresa Leung
  • Katharine Breaux

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15353/cjo.v87i1.5714

Keywords:

Ocular syphilis, granulomatous uveitis, case report, HIV/STI, Treponema pallidum, vision loss, co-infection

Abstract

Ocular syphilis is a rare complication of syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the spirochete bacterium Treponema pallidum. Syphilis is a diagnostic challenge due to its diverse and often subtle clinical manifestations. We report a patient with no known history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) who presented with sudden onset reduced vision and mutton fat keratic precipitates (KPs). Serological testing subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection. This case highlights the insidious nature of ocular syphilis and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation and prompt treatment.

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Published

2025-04-22

How to Cite

Segu, B., Huang, Y.-T. L., Alexander, J., Leung, T., & Breaux, K. (2025). Ocular Syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Co-infection: A Case Report. Canadian Journal of Optometry, 87(1), 33–49. https://doi.org/10.15353/cjo.v87i1.5714

Issue

Section

Case Reports