RT Journal
A1 Campisi D, Whitcomb C
T1 LIver disease in early syphilis
JF Archives of Internal Medicine
JO Archives of Internal Medicine
YR 1979
FD March 1
VO 139
IS 3
SP 365
OP 366
DO 10.1001/archinte.1979.03630400079028
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/archinte.1979.03630400079028
AB Atypical manifestations of early syphilis, although uncommon, may represent diagnostic difficulties and delay therapy. We describe two cases of hepatitis complicating early syphilis. Clues to the diagnosis of early syphilitic hepatitis include the presence of perianal lesions and disproportionate increases in the serum alkaline phosphatase level. Biopsy results were nonspecific. The major differential diagnostic consideration is hepatitis B with false-positive serologic findings. The abnormalities of liver function respond to standard therapy for secondary syphilis. Follow-up of patients and their contacts is essential.(Arch Intern Med 139:365-366, 1979)