Diffuse enlargement of gastric folds as a manifestation of secondary syphilis

Abstract

A case of gastric lues with diffuse enlargement of gastric rugae is presented. Confirmation of the etiological role of the spirochete in producing this very unusual roentgen manifestation of syphilitic gastropathy was provided by recovery of the organism from the gastric mucosa and reversal of the clinical and roentgenographic aberrations by penicillin therapy alone. Diffuse hyperrugosity and erosive gastritis occurring in a patient with a reactive serologic test for syphilis should raise the possibility of luetic gastritis.