Condyloma latum

A type of skin lesion associated with secondary syphilis

Condyloma latum
Condyloma latum lesions on the skin
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Painless, broad, wart-like lesions
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Treponema pallidum infection
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, serological tests
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics (e.g., penicillin)
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Condyloma latum are broad, wart-like lesions that occur in the secondary stage of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. These lesions are highly infectious and are a key clinical feature of secondary syphilis.

Pathophysiology

Condyloma latum results from the systemic spread of Treponema pallidum during the secondary stage of syphilis. The bacterium disseminates through the bloodstream, leading to widespread mucocutaneous lesions. These lesions are characterized by their broad, flat, and moist appearance, often found in warm, moist areas of the body such as the anogenital region, axillae, and oral cavity.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with condyloma latum typically present with painless, broad-based, wart-like lesions. These lesions are often gray to white in color and have a smooth, moist surface. They are most commonly found in the anogenital region but can also appear in other intertriginous areas. In addition to condyloma latum, patients may exhibit other signs of secondary syphilis, such as a generalized rash, mucous membrane lesions, and lymphadenopathy.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of condyloma latum is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions. However, confirmation of syphilis infection is essential and can be achieved through serological tests such as the VDRL or RPR test, followed by specific treponemal tests like the FTA-ABS.

Treatment

The treatment of choice for condyloma latum, as with all stages of syphilis, is antibiotic therapy. Penicillin remains the most effective treatment, with benzathine penicillin G being the standard regimen for secondary syphilis. For patients allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin may be used, although penicillin desensitization is preferred.

Prognosis

With appropriate antibiotic treatment, condyloma latum lesions resolve without scarring. However, untreated syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, leading to more severe complications.

Prevention

Preventive measures include safe sexual practices, regular screening for sexually transmitted infections, and prompt treatment of infected individuals to prevent the spread of syphilis.

Also see

• Syphilis
• Treponema pallidum
• Sexually transmitted infection
• Penicillin