Luetic (syphilitic) hepatitis: the great imitator persists in the 21st century.

ABSTRACT

A male patient in his 20s was referred to the hepatology team with jaundice, pruritus and drenching night sweats. Investigations revealed an acute hepatitis with negative autoimmune and viral serology. Liver biopsy demonstrated severe pan-lobular hepatitis, and an extended diagnostic screen included a positive treponemal antibody test, with an RPR titre of 64, indicating active syphilis infection. He was treated with 2.4 million units of intramuscular benzathine penicillin as a single dose which led to complete resolution of the abnormal liver tests and symptoms. Diagnostic and management challenges, including the role of good history taking, appropriate investigations and role of multidisciplinary team, are discussed.