What is Syphilis? 💉🦠
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through distinct stages and can cause serious complications if untreated.
How is Syphilis Transmitted?
- Through direct contact with a syphilitic sore (chancre) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex
- From an infected pregnant person to their baby (congenital syphilis)
- Rarely through blood transfusion
Stages and Symptoms
- Primary stage
- A painless sore (chancre) appears at the infection site (genitals, anus, mouth) 🕳️
- Lasts 3-6 weeks and heals on its own
- Secondary stage
- Skin rash (often on palms and soles) 🩹
- Mucous membrane lesions
- Fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue
- Latent stage
- No symptoms but infection remains in the body
- Tertiary stage (if untreated)
- Severe complications affecting heart, brain, nerves, bones, and joints
- Can cause paralysis, blindness, dementia, and death
Diagnosis
- Blood tests to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum
- Microscopic examination of sore fluid in early stages
Treatment
- Antibiotics, primarily penicillin, are highly effective
- Early treatment prevents complications and transmission
- Follow-up blood tests to confirm cure
Prevention 🛡️
- Practice safe sex using condoms 🛡️
- Regular testing if sexually active with multiple partners
- Avoid sexual contact with infected individuals until treated
- Screening and treatment during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis