Bassler's sign is a medical term that refers to a physical examination finding seen in individuals with syphilis. It involves the presence of painless, rubbery, non-tender swelling of the groin lymph nodes, also known as buboes. The swollen lymph nodes are typically found in the inguinal area, which is located in the crease between the thigh and the lower abdomen.
This sign is named after Dr. Aloysius Bassler, an American dermatologist who specialized in the study and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, particularly syphilis. Bassler's sign is considered a significant clinical manifestation of secondary syphilis, a stage that occurs approximately 2 to 12 weeks after primary infection.
Secondary syphilis occurs when the bacteria Treponema pallidum spreads throughout the body, leading to the development of various systemic symptoms. These symptoms can include a characteristic rash, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and other generalized signs of infection.
The presence of Bassler's sign during the examination can help healthcare providers establish a diagnosis of secondary syphilis. However, it should be noted that this sign is not pathognomonic, meaning it is not specific to syphilis and can occasionally be seen in other conditions, such as lymphoma or other infectious diseases.
Overall, Bassler's sign serves as an important clinical clue for the timely and accurate diagnosis of secondary syphilis, enabling the initiation of appropriate treatment to prevent potential complications and further spread of the infection.
