What Is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum.
It progresses through four stages—primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary—and can cause severe complications if untreated.
The infection is curable with antibiotics but requires prompt diagnosis.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of syphilis?

Primary stage: Painless sore (chancre) at infection site.
Secondary stage: Rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat.
Latent stage: No symptoms, but infection persists.
Tertiary stage: Can damage the brain, heart, and nerves.

How is syphilis spread?

Syphilis spreads through direct contact with a syphilitic sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis).

Did you know? Up to 40% of people with syphilis never notice any symptoms, even though the infection can quietly progress and cause serious complications if left untreated..

Syphilis Statistics

Who is most at risk for syphilis?

  • Men who have sex with men
  • People with multiple partners
  • Individuals with HIV
  • Infants born to untreated mothers

Syphilis Incidence by Age and Sex (U.S., 2023)

  • Over 200,000 new cases reported
  • Men account for 80% of infections
  • Highest rates: ages 25–39

Syphilis Treatment

Syphilis is treated with penicillin injections.
Early treatment cures the infection and prevents damage to organs.
Sex partners should also be tested and treated to avoid reinfection.

Syphilis FAQs

Can you be cured of syphilis?

Yes, syphilis can be cured with the right antibiotic treatment, usually penicillin.

What are the symptoms of syphilis in a female?

Early symptoms of syphilis in females often include a painless sore or ulcer, usually on the genitals, anus, or mouth. Other signs may include rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue, but some women may not notice any symptoms at all.

How is syphilis transmitted?

Syphilis is primarily transmitted through direct contact with syphilis sores during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or birth.

Can you get syphilis from oral?

Yes, syphilis can be transmitted through oral sex if there are sores or cuts in the mouth or on the genitals. Using barriers like condoms or dental dams can help reduce the risk.

What does syphilis look like on a man?

Syphilis in men often starts as a small, painless sore called a chancre, usually appearing on the genitals, anus, or mouth. This sore is firm and round and typically goes away on its own within a few weeks.

Can you tell if a person has syphilis?

Syphilis can be diagnosed through specific blood tests that detect antibodies to the infection. If you suspect exposure or notice symptoms like sores or rashes, it’s important to get tested by a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

What could syphilis be mistaken for?

Syphilis can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions like herpes, chancroid, or even common rashes because its sores and rashes vary widely in appearance.

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