Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The bacteria that cause syphilis are called Treponema pallidum. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health problems.

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be spread from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. The bacteria enter the body through mucous membranes or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person's sores.

Symptoms of Syphilis

The symptoms of syphilis vary depending on the stage of the infection. There are four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.

• Primary Stage: The first stage of syphilis is characterized by a small, painless sore or ulcer (called a chancre) that appears at the site of infection, usually on the genitals, anus, or mouth. The chancre heals on its own within 3-6 weeks.
• Secondary Stage: If left untreated, syphilis progresses to the secondary stage, which can occur weeks or months after the primary stage. Symptoms may include:
  • Rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Patchy hair loss
  • Mouth ulcers
• Latent Stage: The latent stage of syphilis is a period where there are no visible symptoms, but the bacteria are still present in the body. This stage can last for years.
• Tertiary Stage: If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, which can occur years or even decades after the initial infection. Symptoms may include:
  • Damage to the heart and blood vessels
  • Neurological problems, such as numbness, paralysis, and dementia
  • Blindness
  • Deafness
  • Difficulty with coordination and balance

Treatments for Syphilis

Syphilis is typically treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin. The type and duration of treatment depend on the stage of the infection.

• Primary, Secondary, or Latent Stage: A single dose of benzathine penicillin G (Bicillin) is usually effective in treating syphilis in its early stages.
• Tertiary Stage: Treatment for tertiary syphilis may involve a longer course of antibiotics, such as doxycycline or tetracycline, and may require hospitalization.
• Pregnant Women: Pregnant women with syphilis are usually treated with penicillin to prevent transmission to the fetus.

Prevention of Syphilis

To reduce the risk of getting syphilis, practice safe sex by using condoms and dental dams during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Regular STI testing is also recommended for individuals who are sexually active.