Syphilis testing

back to top

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is one of the oldest infections known. Syphilis is a systemtic disease caused by the Treponema pallidum bacteria. During infection, Syphilis can have three stages; primary, secondary, and latent. What are the symptoms of Syphilis? Known as the “great imitator”, syphilis symptoms vary greatly and may be confused with other diseases. During the various stages of infection, Syphilis may manifest itself in different types of symptoms.

In the Primary Stage (usually between 10-90 days after infection):

• A sore (either single or multiple) will form. The sore may be firm, round, small and painless and last about 3-6 weeks. Usually in the area where the bacteria entered your body. The sore may be hidden and not obvious to you or your partner.
• The sore may heal by itself but the infection is still present.
• Some people may experience slight or no symptoms at all.
• During this stage, the syphilis infection may be local. If left untreated, the infection will enter the secondary stage and become systemic.

In the Secondary Stage (usually occurs weeks to month after the disappearance of the chancre):

• A presence of a non-itchy rash (rough, red or reddish brown in color) at the bottoms of the feet or in the palm of the hands. The rash may also appear in the mucosal or other parts of the body. It may be so mild that it can go unnoticed.
• fever
• swollen lymph glands
• sore throat
• hair loss
• headaches
• weight loss
• muscle aches
• fatigue
• Symptoms may resolve or relapse for up to 5 years in this phase. If left untreated, the infection will enter the latent stage.

In the Latent Stage (begins when secondary stage symptoms disappear and many years have passed):

• No symptoms at all
• Damage begins to internal organs
• lack of coordination
• paralysis
• numbness
• dementia

Ultimately, Syphilis may be fatal.

Note: No one should ever assume that they have a particular STD based on symptoms alone. Many of these symptoms can be related to other illnessed. The only way to determine whether or not you are infected with Syphilis is to get tested and/or seek medical attention.

How is Syphilis transmitted?

Syphilis is spread by direct contact with an infected sore. Sores may appear on the genitals, vagina, anus, rectum, lips and mouth. The bacterium is passed during sexual contact or during pregnancy. Person infected with Syphilis sores may contract or transmit HIV more easily.

Note: Though the consistent and correct use of latex or polyurethane condoms, a person may greatly reduce their risk of acquiring or transmitting STD's.

Is Syphilis curable and what are some treatment options?

Syphilis is a curable STD. If left untreated, any damage Syphilis may produce does not reverse with treatment. A common treatment for Syphilis is penicillin. Dosage and length of treatment varies with the severity of the infection. If you are allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics can be used. Sex partners of infected persons with Syphilis should also seek treatment.

Facts and Figures:

Syphilis was nearly eliminated in 1957 and has since returned as a national epidemic every 7 to 10 years. In 2002, health officials estimated there were over 22,000 cases of syphilis in the United States and that syphilis infections are on the rise.


back to top