Syphilis
WHAT IS SYPHILIS?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum that is transmitted through oral, genital, or anal sex. It can also be transferred from mother to unborn child (congenital syphilis), causing birth defects or death in 40% of babies. It may also be transmitted through sharing needles or broken skin. Untreated syphilis can cause serious health problems.
What are the Symptoms of Syphilis?
Symptoms of syphilis are only observed when the infection is active. However, syphilis can still be transmitted to others when the infection is inactive. Symptoms may be mild and be similar to symptoms of other infections, which may cause syphilis diagnosis to be overlooked
There are four stages of syphilis, which have different symptoms:
In the primary stage, a painless open sore appears at the site where the bacteria entered the body (often the genital area, throat, or anus). Symptoms may occur within a few days or months after infection.
In the secondary stage, symptoms such as patchy hair loss, a rash, fever, malaise, swollen glands, and flat, grayish-white sore in the mouth and on the genitals may occur.
In the tertiary stage, blindness, problems with the nervous system and heart, and mental disorders can occur. If untreated, syphilis can lead to death.
HOW IS SYPHILIS DIAGNOSED?
Syphilis is diagnosed by physical examination and blood test. Your doctor will also send a report to your provincial or territorial health unit. Anyone experiencing STI-related symptoms or who has sex with someone with and STI should be tested for syphilis. You should be tested for syphilis every 3-6 months if you have multiple sexual partners. Further, all pregnant people should be tested in the first trimester and again during delivery.
HOW IS SYPHILIS TREATED?
Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics prescribed by a physician. However, antibiotics cannot undo any damage caused by late-stage syphilis. The preferred drug for treating syphilis is penicillin, but other medications may be used if you have a penicillin allergy. Follow-up blood tests may be ordered to ensure the treatment was effective. To prevent syphilis, practice safer sex by limiting your sex partners, knowing whether your partner engages in risky sexual behaviours, and use a condom or dental dam during sex.
