[Neurosyphilis and Dementia]

Abstract

The incidence of neurosyphilis has declined dramatically because of the availability of penicillin. However, in recent years there has been an increase in the occurence of neurosyphilis. General paresis, a form of parenchymatous neurosyphilis, causes dementia. Some of the symptoms include loss of memory, poor understanding and judgment, and behavioral changes. It is important to distinguish general paresis from neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, because with precise diagnosis and treatment, complete recovery is possible We describe epidemiological data, diagnosis and treatment of neurosyphilis as well as present our cases.