Syphilis

Though highly contagious, syphilis is on the decline and is now one of the least common sexually transmitted diseases (STD) in most parts of the U.S. Caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, syphilis is spread primarily by sexual activity, including oral and anal sex. The disease can be passed to another person through prolonged kissing or close bodily contact with an infected person though this is rare. Syphilis cannot be spread by toilet seats, door knobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bath tubs, shared clothing, or eating utensils. Pregnant women with the disease can spread it to their baby. This disease, called congenital syphilis, can cause abnormalities or even death to the child.

Symptoms

Syphilis symptoms occurs in three stages.

Early or primary syphilis is often characterized by one or more chancre sores that resemble large round bug bites and are often hard and painless. They occur on the genitals and heal without a scar within 6 weeks. They may also occur in or around the mouth.

Seconary syphilis begins 6 weeks to 6 months after exposure and may last 1-3 months. A rosy ''copper penny'' rash is typical on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other symptoms may include moist warts in the groin, white patches on the inside of the mouth, swollen lymph glands, fever, and weight loss.

Tertiary syphilis begins with the disease lying dormant (latent syphilis) and without symptoms. If left untreated, severe problems with the heart, brain, and nerves can result in blindness, dementia, impotency, and even death.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Syphilis can be easily diagnosed with a blood test. If infected for less than a year, a single dose of penicillin is usually enough to destroy the infection. For those allergic to penicillin, tetracycline or doxycycline can be given instead. Later stages of the disease require additional doses.

Possible Complications

Syphilis is a curable disease with prompt diagnosis and treatment. If treated too late, there may be permanent damage to the heart and brain even after the infection is destroyed. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious and permanent problems such as dementia, blindness, or death.

Prevention

Safe sexual practices will reduce your risk of infection. These include limiting the number of sex partners and correct use of condoms every time you have sex. Any symptoms such as an unusual sore or rash should be a signal to stop having sex and to consult a doctor immediately. If you are told you have syphilis or any other STD and receive treatment, you should notify all of your recent sex partners so that they can see a doctor and be treated.

Additional information is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.