What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Treponema Pallidum. It goes through four (4) stages.
How do people get Syphilis?
- Syphilis is passed from person to person through direct contact with syphilis sores. Sores occur mainly on the external genitals such as the penis, vagina, anus and at times emerge on other parts of the body, such as the lips and in the mouth.
- Pregnant women with the disease can infect their babies.
What are the symptoms of Syphilis?
The first symptoms start 10 days to 3 months (usually 3 weeks) after sex with someone who has syphilis. Many people who have syphilis do not know it, as the sores may be in a place on the body where they cannot be seen, or may be mistaken for a pimple or cut.
- Sores on the genitals, anus or mouth, which are usually painless.
- Rashes anywhere on the body. The rash can be flat, scaly, bumpy, round, or crater-like. Spots or scaling on the palms of the hands or sole of the feet are common.
- Large moist patches can occur in the mouth and in the groin areas.
- Headaches, sore throat, swollen glands, or hair falling out in patches can sometimes occur.
Late stages of syphilis can cause permanent damage to the heart, brain and other organs. Any unusual discharge, sore, or rash, particularly in the groin area, should be a signal to stop having sex and see a doctor immediately.
What are the 4 stages of Syphilis?
- Stage 1: 0-3 months – During this stage a painless sore forms on the genital, rectum, mouth or throat depending on the point of entry of the bacteria. The sore disappears on its own in 3-6 months, even without medical intervention. However, the disease process continues if not treated.
- Stage 2: 3-6 months – During this period flu-like symptoms are experienced along with fever, pain and patchy hair loss may occur. A characteristic rash may occur in the palms and soles of the feet.
- Stage 3: 6-12 months – Symptoms may disappear, but the bacteria continue to multiply in the body.
- Stage 4: 12 months and over – Serious injury may occur in the body resulting in blindness, arthritis and damage to the heart and brain.
How is Syphilis diagnosed?
The Queen's Park Counselling Centre and Clinic is the Government’s treatment centre for Syphilis in Trinidad and Tobago. In addition to the physical examination, a VDRL (Venereal Diagnostic Research Laboratory) blood test is done along with a confirmatory test called TP-PA (Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination). This test will determine whether a client needs treatment or not.
How is Syphilis treated?
- Syphilis is easy to cure in its early stages. Antibiotics are used to cure syphilis.
- Effective treatment is available.
- A person who has been treated for syphilis can become infected again.
- Clients are treated and monitored for two (2) years after being treated to assure complete treatment and no re-infection.
- It is important that persons be screened for syphilis regularly if their sexual behaviours put them at risk for STIs.
How is Syphilis prevented?
- Avoid alcohol and drug use as these activities may lead to risky sexual behaviour.
- Sex partners should talk to each other about their HIV status and history of other STIs.
- Correct and consistent use of condoms reduces the risk of syphilis only when the infected area or site of potential exposure is protected. Transmission of syphilis cannot be prevented by washing the genitals or urinating.
