The chancre appears at the point of exposure to the infected person
either on the genital area, the rectum or the mouth. Swollen lymph nodes
also may be present.
The second stage, appears 17 days to six
months after inoculation or 0 - 10 weeks after the disappearance of the
chancre. A skin rash over any area of the body but especially on the
palms of the hands and soles of the feet characterize this stage.
Lesions sometimes appear. These lesions are highly contagious. You may
also have flu-like symptoms--headache and aching in the bones and joints
also may be present.
During the intermediate stage known as
latent syphilis, no symptoms are present. The only way syphilis is
diagnosed in this stage is through a blood test.
The last, or
tertiary stage, is characterized by widespread, often serious,
infection. By this time, bacteria have spread throughout the entire body
and may affect any of the internal organs including bones, heart, and
brain.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosing syphilis largely depends on how far the disease has
progressed. Unless symptoms are present, a blood test is necessary.
Penicillin or an equivalent medication is used to treat syphilis.
Treatment dosages are increased for syphilis that has progressed to a
later stage.
Potential Complications
Syphilis can be completely cured if the diagnosis is made early and the
infection is treated appropriately. If left untreated, however,
syphilis can lead to death. If a woman contracts the disease while
pregnant, she can transmit it to her unborn child, causing deformities
or death of the child.
For more information on Syphilis,
contact Maricopa County Public Health Division of STDs at 602-506-1678
or visit the Centers for Disease Control website.