Syphilis: a reversible cause of nephrotic syndrome

Abstract

A patient in his late 30s presented with symptoms consistent with a nephrotic syndrome. Renal biopsy revealed membranous nephropathy. He also mentioned a spontaneous resolving 'rash' at his glans penis after unprotected intercourse. Therefore, he was tested for sexually transmitted diseases as a possible underlying cause of his nephrotic syndrome. Serology for syphilis was positive with high titres. After a single penicillin injection, there was fast and complete clinical recovery.