Positive Syphilis Serology With Concurrent Disseminated Talaromycosis marneffei in a Patient With HIV: A Case Report.
Qihuan Wu, Hong Li, Yuwei Xia et al.
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Case in brief
A 37-year-old male with HIV presented with a rash and was initially diagnosed with secondary syphilis based on positive serology. After ampicillin treatment failed to improve his condition, he developed fever and cough. Further investigation using targeted next-generation sequencing and blood culture revealed concurrent disseminated Talaromyces marneffei infection. Despite prolonged positive blood cultures, he ultimately achieved a good outcome with antifungal therapy.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
This case highlights the importance of considering opportunistic infections like Talaromyces marneffei in HIV patients presenting with atypical symptoms, especially when initial treatments fail.
Why it matters
The case underscores the need for timely diagnostic methods such as targeted next-generation sequencing in patients with HIV to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management of concurrent infections.