What should you know about syphilis 2nd stage?

Secondary syphilis is a phase of infection caused by Treponema pallidum. A rash may involve the trunk, limbs, palms or soles and may not itch. Other features can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, tiredness, sore throat, headache or patchy hair loss.

Symptoms can fade without treatment even though infection remains. A rash has many possible causes, so its appearance cannot confirm syphilis. Testing uses your history, examination and laboratory assessment, and a clinician may ask about sexual contacts and earlier sores.

Arrange STI Screening promptly if syphilis is possible, including after a partner notification or a painless sore that healed. Avoid sexual contact until a clinician gives clear advice, tell recent partners if instructed, and take the full prescribed course of Antibiotic Treatment. Do not share medicine or rely on a disappearing rash as proof that infection has gone.

Seek urgent assessment for eye pain or vision change, hearing loss, severe headache, confusion, weakness, difficulty walking, or pregnancy with possible exposure. These symptoms can signal involvement needing prompt specialist attention. Emergency help is appropriate for sudden neurological change or severe illness.

Ask which tests are needed, whether the stage changes treatment, how to avoid passing infection, whether partners need assessment, when follow-up testing is due, and which new symptoms should be reported immediately.