Ocular Syphilis in a Kidney Transplant Recipient

Abstract

We present a case of ocular syphilis after a renal transplantation involving progressive vision loss without clinically identifiable ocular disease. Electroretinography showed signs of ischemia, especially in the internal retina. A serological test was positive for syphilis. Lumbar puncture revealed lymphocytic meningitis and a positive serologic test for syphilis in the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient was treated with penicillin, and had a quick vision improvement. In the case of transplant recipients, clinicians should always consider the diagnosis of ocular syphilis in cases with unexplained visual acuity decrement, as this condition may cause serious complications if not treated.

Secondary syphilis concomitant with primary lesion and early neurosyphilis in a kidney transplant recipient

“…We identified only six reports of acquired syphilis after kidney transplantation, with severe and disseminated cases prevailing. 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 This case corroborated the previously described hepatic, neurological, and ophthalmic involvement. 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 However, it presented with the following unusual symptoms: simultaneous primary and secondary involvement, peripheral facial palsy, and false-negative VDRL in CSF.…”

“…3 Despite the large number of people undergoing kidney transplantations (KTx), data on syphilis in this population are scarce. 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9…”