Syphilis is a complex sexually transmitted disease that has a highly variable clinical course. Classification by a clinician with expertise in syphilis may take precedence over the following case definition developed for surveillance purposes.

CLINICAL DESCRIPTION

Evidence of central nervous system infection with Treponema pallidum.

1. CONFIRMED
   

   Syphilis of any stage that meets the following laboratory criteria:

   • A reactive serologic test for syphilis and reactive VDRL in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

2. PROBABLE
   
   • Elevated CSF protein or leukocyte count in the absence of other known causes of these abnormalities.

   • Clinical symptoms or signs consistent with neurosyphilis without other known causes for these clinical abnormalities.

3. POSSIBLE
   
   

   • Not used