We present a case of sudden sensorineural hearing loss occurring as a complication of secondary syphilis. Syphilis affecting the inner ear, or otosyphilis, is well described in historical literature, but has rarely been reported in recent times. However, following the resurgence of syphilis in the UK, unusual manifestations such as otosyphilis are likely to be seen increasingly commonly.
GrimaldiLME, LuziL, MartinoGV.Bilateral eighth cranial nerve neuropathy in human immunodeficiency virus infection. J Neurol1993; 240: 363–6.
6.
TimonCI, WalshMA.Sudden sensorineural hearing loss as a presentation of HIV infection. J Laryngol Otol1989; 103: 1071–2.
7.
FrenchP.1999, revised 2002. UK National Guideline for the Management of late Syphilis. See www.bashh.org/guidelines.asp. (last checked 19 September 2007)
