What is the nickname for secondary syphilis?

What is the nickname for secondary syphilis?

• A. The Great Pretender
• B. The Great Imitator
• C. The Great Mimic
• D. The Chronic Imitator

Answer: (B)

Secondary syphilis presents with a wide range of signs that can resemble many other diseases. The rash can involve the trunk and, often, the palms and soles; mucous patches in the mouth or genital area; condyloma lata in moist areas; patchy hair loss; and generalized lymphadenopathy, sometimes with fever or malaise. Because this disease can mimic dermatologic conditions (like eczema or psoriasis), viral exanthems, or other systemic illnesses, clinicians must keep it in mind when the presentation is unusual or diverse. This broad ability to imitate so many different conditions is why it’s called the Great Imitator. Recognizing that diversity in presentation helps prompt appropriate serologic testing and treatment.

Secondary syphilis presents with a wide range of signs that can resemble many other diseases. The rash can involve the trunk and, often, the palms and soles; mucous patches in the mouth or genital area; condyloma lata in moist areas; patchy hair loss; and generalized lymphadenopathy, sometimes with fever or malaise. Because this disease can mimic dermatologic conditions (like eczema or psoriasis), viral exanthems, or other systemic illnesses, clinicians must keep it in mind when the presentation is unusual or diverse. This broad ability to imitate so many different conditions is why it’s called the Great Imitator. Recognizing that diversity in presentation helps prompt appropriate serologic testing and treatment.