BONE changes in Neanderthal remains which, it has been suggested1, might be caused by rickets are not unlike those seen in certain treponemal diseases, notably congenital syphilis. Examining the Neanderthal collection at the British Museum (Natural History), I noted several features compatible with treponemal disease.
I've known a number of pathologists who believe that syphilis is the leprosy referred to in the bible.