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Case Reports
. 2013 Mar;3(1):41-6.
doi: 10.1055/s-0032-1329887. Epub 2012 Nov 19.

Tertiary syphilis in the cervical spine: a case report and review of the literature

K M I Salem  1 , H Majeed  1 , R Bommireddy  1 , Z Klezl  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Tertiary syphilis in the cervical spine: a case report and review of the literature

K M I Salem et al. Global Spine J. 2013 Mar.

Abstract

As the prevalence of syphilis rises, an increase in tertiary syphilis with spinal involvement is predicted. We report what we believe to be the first case of compressive cervical spine syphilitic gummata, with central cord compression signs. We also review the relevant literature to date. The diagnosis of syphilis in the spine relies on the physician to be aware of it as part of the differential diagnosis. Treponemal laboratory tests are an important aid in establishing a diagnosis.

Keywords: cervical; spine; syphilis; tertiary syphilis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosures K. M. I. Salem, None H. Majeed, None R. Bommireddy, None Z. Klezl, None

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
(A, B) Cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging showing severe central canal stenosis at C2–3 and C3–4 level with partial ankylosis of the C4–5 disc space.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Cervical spine computed tomography scan showing calcification in the soft tissue mass posterior to the cord and in the ligamentum flavum. Images further detail the C4–5 ankylosis.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Postoperative X-rays of the cervical spine.
Figure 4
Figure 4
A follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scan at 1 year showing adequate cervical cord decompression with no evidence of recurrence.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Dynamic radiological image confirming cervical spine stability.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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