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Misdiagnosed neurosyphilis associated with prolonged psychosis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 June 2016

Justin Faden  and
John O’Reardon
Justin Faden*
Affiliation:
School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Psychiatry, 2250 Chapel Ave, Suite 100, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA
John O’Reardon
Affiliation:
School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Psychiatry, 2250 Chapel Ave, Suite 100, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA
*
Justin Faden, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Psychiatry, 2250 Chapel Ave, Suite 100, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA. Tel: 856-482-9000; Fax: 856-482-1159; E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Objective

After the prevalence of syphilis had reached historic lows, the Center for Disease Control devised a plan to eradicate syphilis in the United States. Since that decree there has been a dramatic rise in new cases. Psychosis is an ominous symptom of neurosyphilis.

Methods

We report a case of neurosyphilis that was misdiagnosed and staged incorrectly.

Results

Failure to diagnose neurosyphilis was associated with prolonged psychosis that has been refractory to antipsychotic treatment.

Conclusion

Psychiatrists should renew their vigilance for neurosyphilis in the setting of a positive screening test and psychosis.

Keywords

auditory hallucinationscentral nervous systemdelusionsneurosyphilistreatment resistance
Type
Case Report
Information
Acta Neuropsychiatrica , Volume 28 , Issue 6 , December 2016 , pp. 362 - 364
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Copyright
© Scandinavian College of Neuropsychopharmacology 2016 

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