15/05/2026
SYPHILIS INFECTION
Syphilis is a s*xually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. It can affect many parts of the body if not treated early.
Science / Cause of Syphilis
Syphilis is caused by a spiral-shaped bacterium that enters the body through:
Sexual contact (vaginal, a**l, or oral s*x)
Contact with syphilis sores
From an infected pregnant mother to her baby (congenital syphilis)
Rarely through blood exposure
The bacteria spread through the bloodstream and can damage organs over time.
Symptoms of Syphilis
Syphilis develops in stages.
1. PRIMARY STAGE
Usually appears 10–90 days after infection.
Signs
A painless sore called a chancre
Commonly found on:
Ge****ls
Mouth
A**s
Swollen lymph nodes
The sore may heal on its own, but the infection remains.
Example of syphilis sore
2. SECONDARY STAGE
Occurs weeks to months later.
Symptoms
Skin rash (often on palms and soles)
Fever,Sore throat
Weight loss
Fatigue
Hair loss in patches
Mouth sores
Body pains
Secondary syphilis rash
3. LATENT STAGE
No visible symptoms
Infection stays hidden in the body
Can last for years
4. TERTIARY (Late) Syphilis
Can occur years later if untreated.
Serious complications
Brain damage
Blindness
Heart disease
Nerve damage
Paralysis
Mental problems
TARGET ORGANS AFFECTED BY SYPHILIS
Syphilis can affect many organs:
Organ/System
Possible Effects
Skin
Rashes, sores Brain
Memory loss, stroke, confusion
Nervous system
Numbness, paralysis Eyes Blindness Heart & blood vessels
Aneurysm, heart problems
Liver
Inflammation
Bones & joints
Pain and damage
Reproductive organs
Sores and infection
Baby during pregnancy
Miscarriage, deformities, death
DIAGNOSIS
Doctors diagnose syphilis using:
Blood tests (VDRL, RPR, TPHA)
Microscopic examination
Physical examination of sores
Treatment
Syphilis can be cured, especially when treated early.
Main Treatment
The most common medicine is:
Penicillin G injection
Other antibiotics may be used if a person is allergic to penicillin.
