Syphilis
What is it?
Syphilis is a complicated disease (sometimes called the ‘pox’) caused by a bacterium and can show up in many different ways. It can also be present with no symptoms at all. In either case it can still be infectious. Today it is a relatively rare infection in the UK but common in other parts of the world and becoming more common in the USA.
How is it passed on?
It can be spread by intimate close body contact and sexual intercourse, including oral sex.
How does it affect the body?
There might be no signs of the infection, but most commonly there is the appearance of one or more painless sores. These are generally round in shape commonly emerge around the point of genital contact (ie on the penis or vagina/vulva) two to three weeks later. They can last for up to 6 weeks. A painless, non-irritating rash may follow some weeks later, spreading all over the body including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other symptoms of infection may also be present.
After this stage the person infected may experience no further symptoms for many years. In the long run it can have very serious effects on the brain and nervous system. The heart, bones, liver, and skin can be involved too. A mother, if infected, can pass it on to her unborn baby.
Can it be treated?
Yes - the antibiotic penicillin can provide a very effective cure.
Blood tests for syphilis are offered in most GUM clinics on a relatively routine basis. The results take up to about a week to come back. Tests often need to be repeated at future visits because of possible delays in the test showing positive after infection.
Can it be prevented?
Safer sex practices, including the proper and consistent use of condoms will drastically reduce the risk of infection.
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More info
Medical Guidelines for Professionals: www.agum.org.uk