Table of Contents

Secondary syphilis-low magnification

LEGEND

The epidermis may appear normal, hyperkeratotic, psoriasiform, or ulcerated

  • Band-like infiltrate

  • Perivascular inflammatory infiltrate

Secondary syphilis-inflammatory infiltrate

LEGEND

  • Plasma cells

  • Lymphocytes

  • Histiocytes

Secondary syphilis

LEGEND

  • Abundant plasma cells

Secondary syphilis

LEGEND

  • Swollen endothelial cells, characterized by rounder, tense-appearing cells

    • This is a sign of vascular endothelial distress

Secondary syphilis

LEGEND

Microorganisms can be visualized using Warthin-Starry stain or by immunohistochemistry

  • Immunohistochemistry directed against spirochetes

Secondary syphilis

LEGEND

  • Immunohistochemistry

Secondary syphilis

LEGEND

  • Presence of necrotic keratinocytes

Secondary syphilis

Neutrophils forming abscesses may be observed in the epidermis