Syphilis

Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by a bacteria called Treponema Pallidum. The incubation period for early syphilis is 3 weeks (range to 10-50 days). The primary and most infectious stage of syphilis consists of painless ulcers that are often unnoticed by women. It left untreated, the disease proceeds to a secondary stage of systemic infection, followed by an extended latent phase and finally a tertiary stage. In pregnant women, early stages of syphilis can result in intra-uterine growth retardation, premature birth, stillbirth, and congenital infection of the infant. There are two ways to contract syphilis : congenitally(transmitted from mother to child during pregency) or through sexual contact. Clinical features - At the early state : WOMEN Painless indurated chancre (ulcer) on the external genitalia(labia) Rubbey painless lymph nodes Heaviness in the lower abdomen MEN Painless chancre(ulcer) on the penis Enlarged, rubbery painless lymph nodes. If left untreated, the patient may develop seconday syphilis after 1 or 2 months. Generalized, non-itchy skin rash, involving the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands. May be asymptomatic If left untreated, syphilis may spread : after 2-15 years, the heart and the brain may become infected. If mothers suffering from syphilis to bring their babies to the clinic for screening for congenital syphilis within the first seven days following birth