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Arch Dermatol. 2005;141:1311-1316.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Diagnosis: Secondary syphilis.

MICROSCOPIC FINDINGS, LABORATORY FINDINGS, AND CLINICAL COURSE

Hematoxylin-eosin–stained sections demonstrated a dense lichenoid infiltrate composed almost exclusively of plasma cells. A treponemal immunoperoxidase stain was positive for multiple spirochetal organisms within the epidermis and dermis. Serologic studies revealed a reactive serum rapid plasma reagin test, with a dilution of 1:512, and a positive treponemal antibody-absorption test result. The patient was informed of the diagnosis and refused to undergo testing for human immunodeficiency virus. She returned to the local Department of Health for treatment.

DISCUSSION

Syphilis is a chronic systemic venereal disease with multiple clinical presentations; thus, it has been referred to as "the great imitator." It is caused by the microaerophilic spirochete Treponema pallidum and is characterized by episodes of active disease (primary, secondary, and tertiary stages) interrupted by periods of latency. Primary syphilis occurs an average of 25 days after contact with an infected individual. It presents as a solitary erythematous papule that rapidly forms a painless, . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Arch Dermatol. 2005;141(10):1311-1316.
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