Syphilis

(SIFF-i-lis)

Syphilis is an STD caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum that usually enters the body through close physical contact with an infected person. If left untreated, syphilis can progress into 4 stages with each stage having different symptoms.

Common Symptoms:

• Primary Stage: painless open sore called a chancre (pronounced shanker), often on the genital area, mouth or other infected area.
• Secondary Stage: skin rash develops on infected area. This typically occurs 4 to 10 weeks after initial infection.
• Latent Stage: usually no symptoms are present during this stage. This typically occurs the year after the person becomes infected.
• Late Stage: symptoms may include skin lesions, mental deterioration, loss of balance and vision. If not detected and treated in the early stages, severe health problems can occur including: heart disorders, mental disorders, blindness, nervous system disorders and death.

Testing and Treatment: Testing and treatment services for syphilis are available at all PPWP health center sites. Please see Fees for Services on our website for more information about our sliding fee options.

Testing: The diagnosis of syphilis is usually confirmed with one of several types of blood tests.

Treatment: Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics. If left untreated, syphilis may result in permanent damage to the nervous system, heart, brain or other organs. Death may result.

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