What should you know about condyloma lata syphilis?

These growths are often smooth, broad, flat-topped, and found in warm, moist areas such as around the genitals or anus. They can be mistaken for genital warts, but their appearance and the surrounding symptoms are different. Secondary syphilis may also cause a widespread rash, swollen glands, fever, sore throat, or patchy hair loss. A clinician cannot confirm syphilis from appearance alone; blood testing and an examination help establish the diagnosis.

Arrange a prompt sexual-health or GP assessment and avoid sexual contact until a clinician gives clear advice. Do not shave, squeeze, or apply wart treatments to the area. Tell the clinician about recent partners, earlier sores or rashes, pregnancy, allergies, and any medicines. Confirmed syphilis is treated with prescribed antibiotics, and partners may need assessment and testing. Follow-up testing may be used to check the response.

Seek urgent medical advice for eye pain or vision changes, severe headache, weakness, confusion, hearing changes, or trouble walking, because syphilis can affect the nervous system or eyes. Arrange same-day advice if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system and notice a new genital, anal, or mouth lesion.

Ask which tests are needed, whether other sexually transmitted infections should be checked, when treatment makes sexual contact safer, and how current or previous partners should be notified.