[DarkSavant]

Howard Hughes, the man who bedded dozens of starlets, made unwelcome advances to many others, and ultimately died of syphilis-induced insanity.

I don't think Hughes had Syphilis, he was obsessive compulsive for most of his life which led to his downfall.

[brytlea]

Actually do a search on google of Howard Hughes and syphilis and you will find that many state he did have it.
sundero