Syphilis

Babies can be born with syphilis as they can catch the disease from their mothers in the womb.

Syphilis is no longer commonplace in the developed world but it is still widespread in Asia and Africa. Many of the cases of syphilis seen in the UK are contracted in these countries.

How is syphilis contracted?

What are the signs of syphilis?

The first stage of syphilis is contagious and occurs three to six days after contact.

Lesions show where the skin has been in contact with the bacteria. The lesions appear as painless red sores (chancre) and are often seen on the penis or the labia or inside the vagina itself.

Lesions can also be found in the rectum after anal sex, or in the mouth after oral sex. The lesions will usually disappear after a few weeks.

The second stage is contagious and occurs around six weeks or more after the chancre appears. A rash may appear on the body with small red scaly bumps; this may be followed by flu-like symptoms such as fever and aching muscles. The symptoms disappear but may return at any time.

The third stage of syphilis is non-contagious and may appear years after stages one and two. Serious symptoms affect different parts of the body. The main artery and the heart are damaged and there are changes in the nervous system and the brain, which can give rise to: mental deterioration, sexual impotence, loss of balance and loss of feeling or shooting pains in the legs.

Good advice

Who is at risk?

How does the doctor make the diagnosis?

Normally by reference to a specialist dealing with skin and sexually transmitted diseases. A short stay in hospital is often necessary for further examination and treatment. Sometimes bacteria can be found in the scabs of the lesions and a blood test will confirm the diagnosis.

How do you treat syphilis?

Syphilis is treated with penicillin by injection unless you are allergic to it, in which case an alternative antibiotic will be given. Topical preparations may be required for skin symptoms.

All partners should be examined by a doctor and treated if infected.

Avoid sexual activity for at least two months after treatment begins. Then use latex condoms during sexual intercourse.

After treatment, arrange for blood tests to be done monthly for six months to check for recurrence, repeating every three months for two years.

Go To Next Page>>



The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved