Syphilis testing and treatment

Symptoms of Syphilis
Symptoms may appear up to three weeks after initial contact.

They will vary depending on the stage of the disease:

• Primary syphilis is characterized by its localization at the site of inoculation (mouth, penis, vagina, or anus) in the form of an ulcer called a chancre. One of the most important characteristics of this ulcer is that it is usually painless, even to the touch, which is why the appearance of a chancre in the vagina, throat, or anus can be difficult to identify, distinguishing it from a traumatic wound or even a simple case of herpes.
• Secondary syphilis: This stage begins after the chancre disappears and lasts for six months. It is characterized by the appearance of various spots, mainly on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, which are usually pinkish, flat, and asymptomatic. Other symptoms may include nighttime fever, swollen lymph nodes, or prolonged fatigue.
• Latent syphilis: This is known as asymptomatic or silent syphilis, which can persist for up to a year after the initial infection. At this stage, it is crucial to receive appropriate treatment, as the patient can continue to transmit the bacteria to sexual partners.

Syphilis Treatment
Because it's a bacterial infection, syphilis is treatable and highly effective. Depending on the stage, a single dose or even three doses may be needed to eradicate the bacteria from your body.

The lesions should begin to disappear almost immediately after treatment, but it is very important to follow up to ensure that it has been completely eradicated and to guarantee that your sexual contacts cannot become infected.