The great imitator: A rare presentation of annular and corymbose secondary syphilis

Abstract

A corymbose (or corymbiform) arrangement in secondary syphilis (derived from the Greek word korymbos) is characterised by a central large plaque or papule surrounded by smaller satellite lesions akin to an explosion, whereas annular plaques consist of a peripheral ring of erythematous papules with central hyperpigmentation. These are very rare cutaneous manifestations of secondary syphilis. This case report focuses on one such interesting case which presented with the annular and corymbose pattern involving the face and genitalia.

Corymbose Syphilis

“…A complete resolution of clinical manifestations and a 4-fold decrease in Venereal Disease Research Laboratory titer were observed after 3 months. Syphilis may rarely have a “corymbo” appearance, that is, reminiscent of a flat-topped flower cluster in which the individual flower stalks grow upward from various points of the main stem to the same height 1,2 …”

“…Syphilis may rarely have a "corymbo" appearance, that is, reminiscent of a flat-topped flower cluster in which the individual flower stalks grow upward from various points of the main stem to the same height. 1,2 ORCID IDS Paolo Gisondi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1777-9001 Francesco Bellinato https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6163-6921…”