SYPHILITIC LABIAL LEUCOKERATOSIS

Background Several diagnoses, including syphilis, can be entertained i n patients with leukokeratosis of the buccal mucosa. We report a case of labial leucokeratosis which revealed latent syphilis. Case report A 36-year-old man with a past history of genital syphilis chancre which have been treated 12 years earlier, developed buccal leucokeratosis w ith no other clinical manifestation. Histology showed dermal infiltrat ion containing plasma cells, polynuclears and lymphocytes. Blood tests were positive for syphilis. Complementary examinations were unable to detect another localization. Leucokeratosis regressed completely afte r one injection of Extencilline(R). There has been no recurrence at on e year. Discussion The clinical and histological presentations of syph ilis can mimic different skin diseases. Serodiagnosis alone is signifi cant. Isolated buccal lesions are rarely described in syphilis suggest ing serodiagnosis should always be ordered. Whatever the clinical stag e of the diseases, serological surveillance after treatment for syphil is is essential.