ABSTRACT – Syphilis is a common STD caused by a bacteria through sexual contact. This disease causes painless sores...
Syphilis
Syphilis is a common STD caused by a bacteria through sexual contact. This disease causes painless sores on rectum, mouth and genital area. It is highly contiguous in nature which can spread from one partner to other through skin and mucous membrane. However, it cannot spread using same toilet, bathtub, clothing and utensils. Mild syphilis can be cured by single penicillin administration but if the condition is not treated on time, it can become life-threatening by affecting major parts of the body like heart and brain.
CAUSES –
- Treponema pallidum bacteria
- Unprotected sexual contact with infected person
- Hereditary factors
- Mother to infant during pregnancy
- Syphilis sores
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
- A small sore called a chancre
- Rashes on the body especially on palms and soles of the feet
- Fever
- Hair loss
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat and swollen lymph nodes
COMPLICATIONS –
- Bumps and tumor called gummas appear in the last stage
- Neurological conditions like Stroke, Meningitis, Dementia
- Problem with Cardiovascular system
- HIV and AIDS
- Pregnancy and childbirth issues
DIAGNOSIS –
- Physical examination
- Blood test
- Lumbar puncture – A procedure to collect cerebral spinal fluid sample