Syphilis in Montpellier from 2002 to 2011. A study conducted in the dermatology department of the University Hospital and at the CDAG-CIDDIST

Introduction: Against the backdrop of a resurgence of syphilis in France since the 2000s, we conducted a retrospective study at two different syphilis treatment facilities in Montpellier: the dermatology department of the Regional University Hospital (CHRU) and the Center for Anonymous and Free Testing for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (CDAG/CIDDIST). Patients and methods: All patients diagnosed with syphilis between January 2002 and December 2011 were included with the collaboration of the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance (InVS) (via reporting forms) and the CHRU’s bacteriology laboratory. Epidemiological, clinical-biological, therapeutic, and follow-up data (follow-up for up to 2 years) were recorded. Results: One hundred seventy-five cases of syphilis were diagnosed, including 154 at the CDAG and 21 in dermatology; 96% were men, with a mean age of 36 years, and 82% were men who have sex with men (MSM). A history of STIs was found in 45% of subjects; 14% had HIV infection. At diagnosis, 49% were in the secondary stage, 23% in the primary stage, and 28% had latent syphilis. The most commonly administered treatment (73%) was benzathine benzylpenicillin (Extencilline®). The number of patients lost to follow-up was similar in both centers. Thirty-one patients (17.7%) did not attend any follow-up visits. A decrease in VDRL titer of at least 2 dilutions occurred within one year of treatment in 93 out of 103 cases (90%). Patients treated in dermatology were significantly older than those at the CDAG. They more frequently presented with dermatological signs (58% versus 3%, p<0.0001), and the bisexual population was smaller there. However, there was no significant difference in sex or the frequency of associated infections (notably hepatitis, gonorrhea, herpes, and genital warts). Discussion: Syphilis is on the rise, particularly among MSM. The epidemiological characteristics of our population correspond to typical data from Western European countries. The reasons for consultation differ between the CDAG/CIDDIST and the dermatology department, as the two facilities are complementary. Extencilline® is the most commonly used treatment, in accordance with recommendations. Measures need to be implemented to improve follow-up, but these are hindered by the need to protect patient anonymity.

Author(s): Amelot F, Picot E, Meusy A, Rousseau C, Brun M, Guillot B

Publishing year: 2015

Pages: 742-50

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