The hard penile circumferential fold as the presenting finding in primary syphilis: report of six cases.

BACKGROUND

Six patients with firm circumferential folds located in the balanic sulcus of the penis were studied.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the study was to determine the origin of the lesions.

METHODS

These patients were examined clinically, with dark-field examination when possible and with a serologic test for syphilis.

RESULTS

All patients had reactive serologic tests for syphilis and had enlarged, firm, nontender, inguinal lymph nodes.

CONCLUSION

Although we were unable to prove with certainty that the origin of these folds was syphilitic, all patients had clinical and serologic findings that supported the diagnosis of primary syphilis.