Syphilis Specialists in Karnataka

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by the organism Treponema pallidum, which, if left untreated, progresses through distinct clinical stages over months to years, each with its own characteristic set of symptoms. It typically begins with a single, painless sore called a chancre at the site of infection, followed weeks to months later by a secondary stage involving widespread rash and flu-like symptoms, and if still untreated can eventually enter a latent phase with no symptoms before potentially progressing to tertiary syphilis years later, which can cause severe damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Because syphilis can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, causing serious complications, screening during pregnancy is a standard part of prenatal care. Fortunately, syphilis remains highly curable with appropriate antibiotic treatment at any stage, making early detection through testing especially important.

Causes of Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which is transmitted primarily through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth, resulting in congenital syphilis, which can cause serious birth complications. The infection is most contagious during the primary and secondary stages when sores or rashes are present, and having multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex significantly increases the risk of exposure.

Symptoms of Syphilis

a single painless sore called a chancre at the site of infection during the primary stage, widespread rash often on the palms and soles during the secondary stage, fever and swollen lymph nodes, fatigue and body aches, patchy hair loss, sores in the mouth or genital area, damage to the heart, brain, nerves, or other organs in later untreated stages

Treatment & Types of Syphilis in Karnataka

Penicillin, administered by injection, remains the preferred and highly effective treatment for syphilis at all stages, with the dosing and duration depending on how long the infection has been present. Alternative antibiotics are used for individuals with a documented penicillin allergy, though penicillin desensitization is generally preferred, particularly during pregnancy. Follow-up blood testing after treatment is important to confirm the infection has been successfully cleared, and sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection and further spread.

Syphilis progresses through four recognized clinical stages: primary syphilis, marked by a single painless sore called a chancre at the infection site; secondary syphilis, involving widespread rash and flu-like symptoms weeks to months later; latent syphilis, a symptom-free phase that can last years; and tertiary syphilis, occurring in untreated cases years later and causing severe damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Congenital syphilis is a distinct category, referring to transmission from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, which can cause serious birth complications.

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