What should you know about four stages of syphilis?

Primary syphilis may cause a firm, often painless sore where the infection entered the body. Secondary syphilis can bring a widespread rash, including on the palms or soles, along with swollen glands, fever or tiredness. During latent syphilis, testing may detect infection while no symptoms are noticeable. Tertiary syphilis is a later form that can affect organs such as the heart, brain, nerves or eyes. Not everyone reaches this stage, particularly when infection is diagnosed and treated.

Arrange STI testing if you may have been exposed, have a compatible sore or rash, or have a partner diagnosed with syphilis. A clinician may use blood testing and examine affected areas. Treatment uses prescribed antibiotics; the choice and follow-up depend on the stage and whether the brain, eyes or ears may be involved. Avoid sexual contact until your clinician says it is safe, and tell recent partners so they can seek assessment.

Seek prompt medical care for vision changes, eye pain, hearing changes, severe headache, weakness, confusion, or difficulty walking. These symptoms can signal nervous-system, eye or ear involvement. Seek urgent help for rapidly worsening illness, especially during pregnancy, because untreated infection can affect a baby.

Ask which stage is suspected, which tests are needed, whether a partner needs testing, when sexual contact can resume, and what follow-up will confirm that treatment has worked.