Description
An advanced form of syphilis. Syphilis is caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Quaternary syphilis is syphilis in late stages that has involved the heart or brain (neurosyphilis). Neurosyphilis is a progressive and advanced brain infection (encephalitis). Patients may have dementia, personality changes, unsteady gait, visual problems, stroke symptoms and seizures.
Symptoms
Memory loss (dementia), personality changes, unsteady gait, incoordination, seizures, weakness, confusion, headaches, visual loss.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan and/or MRI is done to rule our other causes of the symptoms. A lumbar puncture is done to evaluate the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid), and detect the bacteria through antibody markers (RPR, VDRL).
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Lumbar puncture, VDRL, RPR
Specialists:
Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan and/or MRI is done to rule our other causes of the symptoms. A lumbar puncture is done to evaluate the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid), and detect the bacteria through antibody markers (RPR, VDRL).
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Lumbar puncture, VDRL, RPR
Specialists:
Neurology
Treatment
High dose penicillin through an IV is the treatment of choice.