Syphilis

Syphilis


Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum. The signs and symptoms of syphilis vary depending in which of the four stages it presents (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary).

Causes

Syphilis is caused by a spirochete (a spiral-shaped bacteria) called Treponema pallidum. You can get the bacteria in the following ways: direct contact with a syphilis sore (usually found on the vagina, anus, rectum, in the mouth, or on the lips) during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.

Symptoms

• The secondary syphilis rash is sometimes hard to see, and it usually doesn't itch. You may feel sick and have mild flu-like symptoms, like a slight fever, feeling tired,sore throat, swollen glands, headache, and muscle aches. You can also have sores in your mouth, vagina, or anus, and weight or hair loss.

Treatment

A single intramuscularinjection of long acting Benzathine penicillin G