A Rash Diagnosis

June 2017 in “ The Medical Journal of Australia ”

Alana Christensen, Anushia Ashokan, David Gordon

hair loss cytomegalovirus syphilis Treponema pallidum benzylpenicillin prednisolone CMV

TLDR The man's rash, hair loss, and vision issues were due to syphilis, not CMV.

A 46-year-old man presented with a persistent rash, hair loss, and visual impairment initially misdiagnosed as acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection based on serology results. Further investigation revealed the correct diagnosis of syphilis, supported by positive Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) and reactive rapid plasma reagin (RPR) tests. The patient was treated with intravenous benzylpenicillin and prednisolone, leading to significant improvement in symptoms. This case highlighted the importance of cautious interpretation of positive IgM serology results, which can often be false positives, and the necessity of confirming diagnoses with follow-up testing to demonstrate IgG seroconversion.

View this study on onlinelibrary.wiley.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 1000+ results

community How does hair loss and recovery work?

in Chat 12 upvotes 1 month ago

Hair loss varies due to genetic sensitivity to DHT and other factors. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling.

community Hair loss products whilst trying to conceive

in Minoxidil 1 upvotes 1 month ago

The conversation is about the safety of using hair loss products like Minoxidil and finasteride while trying to conceive and after birth. The user is seeking advice on whether these products are safe for the baby and if any men in similar situations can share their experiences.

community Hair loss treatment tier list by Dr Oscar Muñoz

in Treatment 912 upvotes 1 month ago

Dr. Oscar Muñoz's hair loss treatment tier list suggests oral minoxidil and finasteride are highly effective, while topical treatments like RU58841 and microneedling are less effective. Users discuss the effectiveness of various treatments, with some favoring oral options for their practicality and higher response rates.

community Hair Loss transformation Min/Fin/DermaStamp Age 23 M.

in Progress Pictures 127 upvotes 2 months ago

A user shared their hair loss transformation using Minoxidil, Finasteride, and DermaStamp, showing significant improvement over time. They noted quitting DermaStamp due to laziness and attributed past poor results to heavy smoking.

community Best hair loss treatment to get your hair back!

in Progress Pictures 3 months ago

Hair loss treatments include Minoxidil, Finasteride, hair transplant surgery, PRP therapy, laser therapy, natural remedies, and lifestyle changes. Combining treatments often yields the best results.

community Hair Loss Associated with Escitalopram (anti-depressant). Do SSRIs Affect the Hair Follicle?

in Research/Science 7 upvotes 3 months ago

A 22-year-old male experienced hair loss potentially linked to escitalopram, which stopped after switching to vortioxetine. His depressive symptoms improved with continued treatment.