Syphilis resembling human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer: case report and literature review of recent incidence trends.

BACKGROUND: The yearly incidence of syphilis has risen markedly in Japan and worldwide. There has also been an increased incidence of human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer, which presents with clinical features similar to those of syphilis. OBJECTIVE: A case of syphilis with clinical manifestation resembling that of human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer is reported, along with a literature review of similar cases. METHODS: Clinical case reports and review of previous literature. CONCLUSION: Syphilis may cause irregular mucosal lesions of the oropharynx and cystic lymphadenopathy. It is difficult to diagnose syphilis only by examining pathological specimens, without clinical information such as Treponema pallidum antibody findings. It is necessary to correctly understand the characteristics of syphilis and human papilloma virus associated oropharyngeal cancer to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.