Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
Symptoms usually occur in three phases. Primary symptoms are characterised by a painless sore or ulcer known as a chancre, which usually appears on the mouth, anus, penis, vulva, vagina or cervix. This is usually accompanied by swollen glands in the groin area, and can last up to 6 weeks.
Secondary symptoms include:
-
a non-itchy, dark rash that often appears on the palms and soles of the feet
-
a general feeling of illness, with fever, tiredness and headaches
-
grey patches on the genitals
-
white patches on the inside of the mouth.
If left untreated, tertiary symptoms can develop. This may cause serious damage to internal organs and even death.
Treatment of syphilis is usually with antibiotics. Infection can be prevented by using a condom and avoiding direct sexual or skin contact with an infected person.
