A case of a pseudoneoplastic primary syphilis chancre on the neck

Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by inoculation by the spirochete Treponema pallidum subsp pallidum. Between 2014 and 2018, rates of syphilis have increased in most provinces and territories throughout Canada, with at least 8 provinces and territories experiencing outbreaks.1 Syphilis passes through several stages; the initial stage of primary syphilis is characterized by a painless skin ulcer or chancre at the site of inoculation, appearing approximately 3 weeks following exposure. Extragenital chancres are rare and can occur at any mucocutaneous site exposed to an infectious lesion.