Korean J Dermatol.
2006 Oct;44(10):1238-1241.
Two Cases of Lues Maligna
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea. jaymax1@dreamwiz.com
- 2Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea.
- 3Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Jinju, Korea.
Abstract
- Lues maligna (malignant syphilis), also called noduloulcerative syphilis, is a kind of cutaneous secondary syphilis, which presents virulent clinical features and is frequently associated with an immunosuppressed state. Though there are many possible debilitative diseases, it has recently been more frequently presented in the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. Other causes are diabetes and chronic alcoholism. Prompt diagnosis and early treatment can result in a desirable recovery and prevent spread of the disease. We report two cases of lues maligna associated with the underlying diseases of HIV-infection and diabetes. The skin lesions in these cases showed favorable results after treatment with benzathine penicillin.
