Alopecia Areata in a Patient Undergoing Treatment for Secondary Syphilis: A Diagnostic Challenge

    February 2026 in “ Cureus ”
    Diego I Mendez-Villanueva, Ana Martinez, Diana Castro … Diego F. M. Guarda
    Studysummary This case report highlights that alopecia areata can mimic syphilitic alopecia in patients with recent or active syphilis, emphasizing the importance of trichoscopy in accurately diagnosing alopecia types and preventing misdiagnosis.
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    Research cited in this study 4

    1. Trichoscopic Features of Syphilitic Alopecia and Alopecia Areata: A Comparative Study Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology · 2023
    2. Syphilitic Alopecia: Case Reports and Trichoscopic Findings Skin appendage disorders · 2017
    3. Syphilitic Alopecia: A Report of 5 Cases and a Review of the Literature Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas · 2013
    4. Alopecia Areata: Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Unusual Cases Dermatologic Therapy · 2011