>Personal Health >STD >Common STD >Syphilis

Syphilis

Spanish(PDF 130kb) | Creole(PDF 127kb)

Syphilis caused by bacterium Treponema pallidum, is often indistinguishable from other diseases resulting in late complications when treated. Syphilis is transmitted through direct contact with a syphilis sore through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be transmitted from mother to newborn during vaginal childbirth.

Signs & Symptoms: are often indistinguishable from other STD and may disappear without treatment. Individuals may be asymptomatic (without symptoms). If symptoms occur they generally appear 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.

• Canchre sores on external genitals, lips, and mouth
• Skin rash (rough, red or reddish brown spots on the palms of the hands and bottoms of the feet). May appear on trunk of body as well. Rash is generally not itchy.
• Fever
• Swollen lymph glands
• Sore throat
• Patchy hair loss
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue

Complications & Consequences:

• Damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints
• Paralysis, numbness, gradual blindness, and dementia
• Difficulty in motor coordination
• Increased risk for acquiring HIV
• Death
• Increased risk of stillbirth
• Untreated baby may become developmentally delayed, have seizures, or die.

Prevention:

• Abstinence
• Mutually monogamous relationship with a tested, uninfected partner
• Appropriate use of latex condoms and barriers
• Avoidance of sexual contact with a partners until treatment is completed
• Appropriate treatment for sexual partners
• Discontinue sexual contact if signs or symptoms occur
• Screening test during pregnancy
• Notify all recent sexual partners if infected
• Seek medical attention if sores or rash develop