The Great Masquerader: A Case of Bilateral Disc Edema in Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by infection with bacterium Treponema Pallidum. Infection is most commonly acquired sexually. The clinical course is divided into primary, secondary, latent and tertiary syphilis. Ocular manifestations can occur at any stage of the disease and can involve almost any structure. Common manifestations include posterior uveitis, interstitial keratitis, anterior uveitis, and optic neuropathy. As a result of its varied presentations, syphilis has historically earned the nickname "The Great Masquerader". There has been a resurgence of syphilis in the US. In 2000 there were 5973 reported cases of syphilis compared to 30,644 in 2017, this represents a 413% increase. Given this resurgence, it can be anticipated that a rise in cases of ocular syphilis will also be seen.