Overview
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum . It progresses in stages and can affect multiple organs if untreated.
Symptoms
Primary: painless sore (chancre) at infection site Secondary: skin rash, mucous membrane lesions, fever, and fatigue Latent: no symptoms, bacteria remain in the body Tertiary: severe organ damage (heart, brain, nerves) if untreated
Causes
Sexual contact with an infected person Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy (congenital syphilis)
Diagnosis
Blood tests for syphilis antibodies (RPR, VDRL, or treponemal tests) Examination of sores or lesions Testing of cerebrospinal fluid in suspected neurosyphilis
Treatment
Penicillin is the drug of choice Alternative antibiotics for those allergic to penicillin Follow-up blood tests to ensure treatment success Screening and treatment of sexual partners Monitoring for complications in advanced stages