Syphilis

📖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.

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