Updated by: Arabinda Naik
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Treponema pallidum bacterium. These pathogens usually enter the body through the tissues that line the rectum, vagina, or nose. If not treated quickly, it could get worse over time and causes other medical issues. There are four stages in syphilis Primary, Secondary, Latent, and Tertiary.
Causes of Syphilis:
Syphilis could be caused by Having HIV. Having unsafe sex or unprotected sex (Not using condoms). Having sex with partners who have many sex partners. Having a sex partner who is infected by the syphilis bacteria.
Symptoms of Syphilis:
Signs and symptoms vary from man to woman. The general symptoms of this bacterial infectious disease include:
Fever. Pain during sex. Lower abdominal pain. Rashes over the trunk, hands, or feet. Painful or burning urination. Discharge from the penis. Unusual vaginal bleeding. Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area.
Diagnosis of Syphilis:
Syphilis can be diagnosed by certain laboratory tests. These tests include an examination of a body fluid sample: Blood tests: Blood samples can confirm the diagnosis or the presence of HIV or the stages of syphilis. Urine samples. Some sexually transmitted diseases can be confirmed with a urine sample. Genital sores: Testing fluid and samples from the sores may be done to diagnose the types of sexually transmitted infections.
Treatment of Syphilis:
Syphilis is generally easier to treat. Treatment usually consists of Antibiotics or Antiviral drugs. Primary and secondary syphilis could be easily treated with a penicillin injection. Penicillin is one of the widely used antibiotics and is very effective in treating syphilis.