Background. This study examined the relationship between antecedent sy
philis infection and cancer incidence in an attempt to identify specif
ic cancer patterns. Methods, The study cohort consisted of 16420 peopl
e diagnosed with syphilis between 1972 and 1987 and who were residents
of New York State, exclusive of New York City, at time of diagnosis.
Incident cancers among cohort members were identified through linkage
with files maintained by the New York State Cancer Registry. Results.
A total of 350 cancer cases were diagnosed among cohort members. For m
ales and females combined, incidence was significantly elevated for ca
ncers of the oral cavity standardized incidence ratio (SIR = 169, 95%
confidence interval [Cl]: 109-249), and specifically for cancer of the
tongue (SIR = 251, 95% Cl: 108-494). Significantly elevated incidence
was observed among males for Kaposi's sarcoma (SIR = 2000, 95% Cl: 12
90-2950). Conclusion. While no conclusions may be reached concerning c
ausality, the data do argue for increased cancer surveillance among pe
ople with syphilis. Moreover, findings are discussed in light of histo
rical considerations.