Visual evoked response in syphilitic optic atrophy. A case report.

A case of neurosyphilis is described. The presenting symptoms were reduced visual acuity and impaired colour vision. The examination revealed bilateral optic atrophy and acquired red-green colour defect. A syphilitic aetiology was based on positive serological tests in blood and CSF, pleocytosis and increased total protein in the CSF. The abrupt decline in visual acuity was arrested by treatment with penicillin and systemic steroids, but normalization of vision was not obtained. All VER-records, of P2 latencies and morphologies were surprisingly normal, but the amplitudes were reduced.