Syphilis

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Treponema Pallidum.

How do people get Syphilis?

Syphilis is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with painless sores called chancres during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Chancres usually occur on the external genitals, vagina, anus, or rectum, but can also occur on the lips and in the mouth. Syphilis cannot be spread through contact with toilet seats, doorknobs or other kinds of external contact.

What are the signs and symptoms in adults?

Primary Stage

The primary stage of syphilis is usually marked by the appearance of a single chancre, but there may be multiple sores. The chancre is usually small and painless and lasts 3 to 6 weeks. It will heal without treatment, but the infection will progress to the secondary stage if not treated.

Secondary Stage

The second stage of syphilis typically starts with the development of a non-itching rash on the palms of the hands and the bottoms of the feet. The rash may appear red, or reddish brown. Other symptoms of secondary syphilis may include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Again, the symptoms of secondary syphilis may resolve without treatment, but the infection will progress if not treated.

Late Stage

Without treatment syphilis will progress, even though there are no signs or symptoms. Left untreated, syphilis can cause damage to the internal organs, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, liver, and bones. This damage may not show up for many years, but can be serious enough to cause death. Symptoms include difficulty coordinating muscle movements, paralysis, numbness, gradual blindness, and dementia.

Many people infected with syphilis don’t display symptoms for years, but remain at risk for late complications if not treated. For this reason, and because many people infected with syphilis don’t recognize chancre sores, the risk of transmission is high.

How is Syphilis diagnosed?

A blood test is usually used to diagnose syphilis.

What is the link between Syphilis and HIV?

Genital sores (chancres) caused by syphilis make it easier to transmit and acquire HIV infection because they can cause breaks in the mucous membranes that protect against infection. Chancres may bleed easily, and when they come into contact with oral and rectal mucosa during sex, susceptibility to HIV is increased.

What is the treatment?

Syphilis is easy to cure in its early stages. A single antibiotic injection will cure a person who has had syphilis for less than a year. Someone who has had syphilis for longer may require additional doses.

How can Syphilis be prevented?

The best way to avoid contracting syphilis is to abstain from sexual contact or to be in a monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested for syphilis and is not infected. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can also reduce the risk of syphilis. Avoiding alcohol and drug use can also help, because these activities can lead to risky sexual behaviour.

Where can I get more information?

For more information, call Healthlinks at 940-2200.

Syphilis Links

Health Canada

Public Health Agency Of Canada

Getiton.ca