Syphilis is a bacterial STD that progresses through stages: painless sore, rash, latent, and late-stage organ damage. Curable with penicillin at any stage.

What Is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial STD caused by Treponema pallidum. It progresses through distinct stages if untreated.

Stages

Primary: painless sore (chancre) at infection site, 10–90 days after exposure
Secondary: rash (palms and soles), fever, fatigue, swollen nodes, 2–8 weeks after sore
Latent: no symptoms but bacteria remain in body
Tertiary: organ damage (brain, heart, eyes) years later

Testing

Blood test (RPR or VDRL screening + confirmatory FTA-ABS)
Reliable 3–6 weeks after exposure

Treatment

Penicillin G injection (single dose for primary/secondary)
Curable at any stage but tertiary damage may be irreversible

Source: CDC, American Sexual Health Association.

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