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Syphilis (Primary, Secondary, Tertiary)

Clinical course of Treponema pallidum infection by stage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Syphilis (Primary, Secondary, Tertiary)?

Syphilis is a chronic infection caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum, transmitted primarily by sexual contact and from mother to baby, divided into stages.

In the primary stage, a painless chancre develops at the contact site; in the secondary stage, generalized rash on the trunk and extremities (including palms and soles), generalized lymphadenopathy, and mucous membrane lesions occur. The latent period is asymptomatic.

In untreated cases, gummas, cardiovascular syphilis, and neurosyphilis may develop in the tertiary stage years later. Penicillin remains the cornerstone of treatment.

Symptoms

Primary: painless chancre, regional lymphadenopathy
Secondary: generalized symmetric maculopapular rash
Condyloma lata, mucosal lesions
Fatigue, fever, lymphadenopathy
Latent stage: asymptomatic
Tertiary: gummas, aortic aneurysm
Neurosyphilis: cognitive impairment, tabes dorsalis

Risk Factors

Unprotected sexual intercourse
Multiple sexual partners
HIV and other STIs
Sex work
Anal sex (MSM)
Perinatal exposure
Blood product exposure (rare)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a painless genital/oral lesion is observed
  • Rash on the palms and soles
  • Generalized lymphadenopathy and rash
  • For screening when another STI is diagnosed
  • For syphilis testing during pregnancy

Treatment Methods

01
Benzathine penicillin G (dose by stage)
02
Doxycycline in penicillin allergy
03
Intravenous crystalline penicillin in neurosyphilis
04
Partner notification and treatment
05
HIV and other STI screening
06
Serological monitoring (RPR/VDRL)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.