Syphilis resembling human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer: case report and literature review of recent incidence trends

Abstract

Background The yearly incidence of syphilis has risen markedly in Japan and worldwide. There has also been an increased incidence of human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer, which presents with clinical features similar to those of syphilis. Objective A case of syphilis with clinical manifestation resembling that of human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer is reported, along with a literature review of similar cases. Methods Clinical case reports and review of previous literature. Conclusion Syphilis may cause irregular mucosal lesions of the oropharynx and cystic lymphadenopathy. It is difficult to diagnose syphilis only by examining pathological specimens, without clinical information such as Treponema pallidum antibody findings. It is necessary to correctly understand the characteristics of syphilis and human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

A Case of Syphilis Suspected Preoperatively as a Case of Tongue Cancer

“…In regard with the primary and secondary stages of syphilis, the tongue, palate, and lips are reported as common sites for syphilitic lesions in the oral cavity [8]. Syphilis patients have also been reported to show enlarged lymph nodes with cystic or necrotic changes on CT images [9][10][11], very similar to the fndings observed in cases of lymph node metastases from head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), including tongue cancer.…”