Neurosyphilis can have varied clinical manifestations. New generation physicians and neurologists may not be aware of the clinical manifestations of neurosyphilis. Here we report a case of neurosyphilis with optic atrophy and nystagmus misdiagnosed as spinocerebellar ataxia. This case underscores the importance of Serum VDRL test in patients with optic atrophy, nystagmus and cognitive decline.