Case report identifies intestinal spirochetosis causing chronic diarrhea in an immunocompetent male, suggesting critical need for accurate diagnostic strategies.
Key Points
To highlight a rare case of intestinal spirochetosis due to syphilis presenting as chronic diarrhea.
Patient evaluated for symptoms including diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
Serologic testing conducted for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis.
Colonoscopy performed revealing mucosal abnormalities.
Biopsy confirmed presence of spirochetes and chronic colitis.
Patient treated with benzathine penicillin.
Chronic diarrhea persisted for five months before identification.
Reactive VDRL test indicated syphilis infection.
Colonoscopy showed suggestive signs of ulcerative colitis.