Benign tertiary syphilis and HIV infection

Abstract

Benign tertiary (gummatous) syphilis has virtually disappeared [1]. Two homosexual men with gummata have presented to genitourinary medicine clinics in west London in recent months. They both had antibodies to HIV. It is possible that otherwise adequately treated syphilis has progressed to the tertiary stage as a consequence of HIV infection and modification of the immune response.