Tertiary syphilis in the cervical spine: a case report and review of the literature.
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.
The Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, United Kingdom.
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Salem
The Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, United Kingdom.
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Majeed
The Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, United Kingdom.
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Bommireddy
The Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, United Kingdom ; Orthopedic Department of Third Medical School, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Klezl
cervical; spine; syphilis; tertiary syphilis