Subclinical acquired syphilis masquerading as membranous glomerulonephritis

Abstract

Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is one of the common forms of nephrotic syndrome in the adult population. The majority of MGN are idiopathic, but the secondary forms can be seen in the setting of autoimmune disease, neoplasia, infection and following exposure to certain therapeutic agents. Histologically, MGN is an immunologically mediated disease in which immune complexes deposit in the subepithelial space. Syphilis is a venereal disease that can also be acquired by exposure to infected blood. Untreated syphilis may progress and develop renal complications such as membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) or diffuse endocapillary glomerulonephritis with or without crescent formation. Today, with increasing awareness of sexually transmitted diseases especially HIV infection coupled by the practice of protected sexual intercourse and advancement of medicine, we have seen fewer and fewer cases of acquired syphilis. Furthermore, majority will present with typical syphilitic symptoms of such as chancre, rash, fever and lymph node enlargement in which case the diagnosis is easily obtained. We are reporting a case of acquired syphilis masquerading as membranous glomerulonephritis without typical syphilitic symptoms.