Syphilis

Description

A bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The disease starts as a painless sore — typically on the genitals, rectum or mouth. Without treatment, syphilis can severely damage the heart, brain or other organs, and can be life-threatening.

Common Symptoms

• Primary Stage: A single, painless sore (chancre).
• Secondary Stage: Skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever.
• Latent Stage: No signs or symptoms.
• Tertiary Stage: Severe organ damage, including neurological and cardiovascular problems (neurosyphilis, cardiovascular syphilis).

Common Causes

• Infection with the bacterium Treponema pallidum, transmitted primarily through sexual contact.

Treatment Information