SYPHILIS
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, a spirochete.
How do I get Syphilis?
Syphilis can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, kissing, or to a fetus during pregnancy. Transmission most easily happens through direct contact with a syphilis sore, which can occur on the genitals, vagina, anus, in the rectum, on the lips or in the mouth.
What are the symptoms of Syphilis?
Symptoms can occur from 17-21 days to 30+ years after initial infection.
Syphilis occurs in four phases:
- Primary phase – Occurs from 3 weeks to 90 days after initial infection. Painless sores or open, wet ulcers (chancres) appear on the genitals, in the vagina, on the cervix, on the anus and in the rectum, on the lips and in the mouth, as well as on the breasts. Swollen glands also mark this phase.
- Secondary phase – Occurs 3-6 weeks to 2 years after initial infection. Initial sores tend to disappear. Body rashes develop, especially on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other symptoms include: mild fever, fatigue, hair loss, weight loss, swollen glands, headache, and muscle pain.
- Latency phase – No symptoms occur during this time between other phases.
- Late phase – This phase begins when symptoms from the secondary phase disappear. Left untreated, one third of people with Syphilis at this phase will develop serious damage to the nervous system, heart, brain, and other organs, and death may result.
How is Syphilis diagnosed?
Syphilis is diagnosed with a blood test (to detect antibodies) and/or a culture test (of fluid from an infection site).
How is Syphilis treated?
Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics, though treatment options change the longer someone has been infected with the bacteria.
Abstinence is recommended during treatment until the Syphilis sores are completely healed.
How do I prevent Syphilis?
Correct and consistent use of condoms during sexual activity will reduce the risk of getting infected with Syphilis.
