Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a type of bacteria called Treponema pallidum. It is spread through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. It can also be spread from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Syphilis is diagnosed with a blood test and can be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of infection. During the primary stage, which usually begins two to three weeks after infection, a person may develop a single, painless sore called a chancre. The chancre typically appears on the genitals, anus, or mouth. If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the secondary stage, which usually occurs two to six weeks after the chancre appears. Symptoms of the secondary stage include a rash, fever, sore throat, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the latent stage which can last for years. During this stage, there are usually no symptoms. However, if left untreated, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, which can cause serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, dementia, and even death. Syphilis is a serious infection and can have serious long-term health effects. It is important to get tested for syphilis if you think you may have been exposed. Treatment is most effective when started early.