Palmar Lesions and Moth-Eaten Alopecia in a 23-Year-Old Man.

Secondary syphilis presenting with palmar lesions and moth-eaten alopecia was diagnosed based on characteristic skin biopsy findings in a 23-year-old man.

• Why it matters: Accurate diagnosis is crucial because secondary syphilis can mimic other dermatological conditions and requires specific treatment to prevent progression and complications.
• What they did: The approach involved clinical assessment and skin biopsy revealing dyskeratotic keratinocytes, basal vacuolar alteration, and inflammatory infiltrates, supporting the diagnosis of secondary syphilis.
• The result: Confirming the diagnosis enables targeted antibiotic therapy, which can resolve symptoms and prevent further systemic involvement.