Syphilis etiology clinical features Oral manifestation
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth (congenital syphilis). The infection progresses in stages and can cause a wide range of symptoms. Here are some key points about syphilis: 1. Stages of Syphilis: Syphilis progresses through several stages: - Primary stage: Characterized by the appearance of a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection, which can be in the genitals, anus, or mouth. - Secondary stage: Involves the development of a skin rash, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms. - Latent stage: During this stage, there are no visible symptoms, but the infection is still present. - Tertiary stage: If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, which can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, brain, nerves, eyes, and other organs. 2. Testing and Diagnosis: Syphilis ca