Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through stages (primary, secondary, latent and tertiary) if left untreated, and can cause serious long-term health problems.
Primary syphilis typically presents as a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection. Secondary syphilis may cause a rash, flu-like symptoms and patchy hair loss. If untreated, the infection enters a latent stage and can eventually cause damage to the heart, brain, bones and other organs.
Blood tests for syphilis include screening tests (such as rapid plasma reagin, or RPR) and confirmatory tests (such as the Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay, or TPPA). IgG and IgM antibody tests are also used to assess infection status.
Syphilis is treated effectively with antibiotics, usually penicillin. Early treatment prevents complications and further transmission.
Causes of Syphilis
Syphilis is caused by the spirochaete bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is transmitted through:
- Direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex
- Close skin-to-skin contact with an active lesion
- Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or birth (congenital syphilis)
Syphilis rates have been rising in the UK, particularly among men who have sex with men. Risk factors include unprotected sex, multiple partners and co-infection with HIV.
Without treatment, syphilis progresses through stages over years. Tertiary syphilis, now rare in the UK, can cause cardiovascular damage, neurological disease (neurosyphilis) and destructive lesions (gummas) in various organs.
Tests that can help check this condition
Learn more on the official NHS page .
